Parris Island Band Community Christmas Concert

We always have lots of events around the Beaufort area all year long, but nothing compares to the fun we get during the holidays. And, this year is no different. In addition to all of the celebrations, parades, and tree lightings, The Parris Island Marine Band will be performing TWO FREE Christmas concerts for our community to enjoy.

The events will take place on Friday, December 12th at 630pm at Community Bible Church on Parris Island Gateway, and Sunday, December 14th, at 3pm at in Port Royal, at the corner of Paris venue and 8th Street. Right in the heart of the Old Village.

Just like they have done each year at downtown Beaufort’s annual Night on the Town Christmas Celebration, the band will perform a variety of holiday classics for all to enjoy. These are some very talented Marines and we’re glad they put on such a nice, festive concert every year.

Beaufort is home to lots of great local bands, and of course one of them is the 110 year old Parris Island Marine Band, a local favorite at various Beaufort-area events, parades and festivals.

While never, ever showing its age, the Parris Island Marine Band was established way back on on October 28, 1915. Its musicians originally doubled as marksmanship instructors, close combat instructors and provided support for various units on the depot.

Today, the Marines of the Parris Island Marine Band make up the concert band, the marching/ceremonial band, brass band, brass quintet, a rock band, and a jazz combo.

The Parris Island Marine Band’s primary mission is to provide musical support for recruit graduations and other military ceremonies and events. In addition to playing at approximately 40 recruit graduations each year, the band also performs concerts and parades both locally here in the Beaufort area and across the United States.

You’ll be sure to hear time-honored favorites including “Sleigh Ride” and “Must’ve Been Good ‘Ol Saint Nick”, “Rockin Around the Christmas Tree” and many other traditional Christmas tunes.

The Christmas Concerts are free to attend. Seating is provided at the church concert, which will be an orchestra-style concert on stage, but the town of Port Royal asks that you don’t forget to bring your chairs on Sunday afternoon, and lots of good cheer.

Ready or not, Christmas is only a few weeks away, and the Parris Island Marine Band is here to spread some Christmas spirit to help everyone enjoy the holiday.