The Purdue band heads to Ireland

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - The Purdue band prepares to travel almost four thousand miles, just for one parade.

The band will travel to Dublin, Ireland on Sunday to march in the St. Patrick's Day Parade.

The band has marched in several parades, including the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, but band members said this will be the first time in Ireland..

The trip is not a mandatory, but band officials said most everyone chooses to attend.

Purdue drum major Jim Behmer said the best part of the trip will be performing in front of so many people.

"It's especially nice when you get to perform in front of people who haven't seen what we do," said Behmer. "The ability to go over there and, just like we did with Macy's in New York, inspire people with the performances we do and the music. It's a great opportunity."

In case you're wondering, the band will be taking their famous drum on the trip with them. Band members said it is the first time the drum will travel overseas.