A short time before kickoff, when the football fans are tailgating, grilling, and meandering around the stadium, The Marching Virginians are making their way to the soccer fields beside Lane. During the week, these fields are usually reserved for teams to practice, but on game day they’re a hub for Hokie fans to come hear some music and get pumped up for the game.
The Marching Virginians Super Sousaphone section dancing “The Hokie Hokie” at Hokie Village; Source: Alana Hassett
“Hokie Village” is located on Beamer Way a little past Cassell Coliseum—just follow the sound of loud music and cheering fans. When you walk up the stairs and through the gates, you’ll find a bustling atmosphere with music, tailgating games, and concessions, as well as appearances by student athletes, cheerleaders, the Hokie Bird himself, and of course, your Marching Virginians.
For several years, the drumline was the only group who attended Hokie Village, but this year the whole band attended, bringing even more spirit, excitement, and volume. In a set of around fifteen minutes, the MVs play popular stand tunes as well as some Virginia Tech classics like Carry Me Back and Tech Triumph. The drumline also plays some classic drum cheers.
MV showing off their dance moves at Hokie Village; Source: Alana Hassett
At Hokie Village, you’re able to get a close-up look at all of the MV dance moves that you can’t see as well in the stands, and you get a real sense of the excitement and passion that gives the MVs their nickname, “The Spirit of Tech.” While nothing can beat watching the MVs perform in Lane Stadium, Hokie Village offers an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with the band and hear them better than you can anywhere else. After the performance, you can get a picture with your MV before they begin the march into the stadium.
Hokie Village is perfect for MV fans and for families with children. Kids have the opportunity to run around, play games, and even get autographs from athletes. The event is free and open to anyone.
Whether you’re a band parent, friend, or simply a fan, the MVs encourage you to check out Hokie Village at a football game next fall to get pumped up and ready for a Hokie victory.