CBA State Championships: 4A/5A Quarterfinals

State Championships for the 4A and 5A classifications take place over two days at the Air Force Academy. The first day is the Quarterfinals round. The second day is the Semifinals and Finals competitions. 

Twenty bands in Class 4A and in Class 5A qualify for the State Championships based upon Regional scores. The format is a Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Finals round. The bands perform in reverse order of seeding from Regional rankings for Quarterfinals. The bands that are seeded #1-6 receive a bye in Quarterfinals and automatically advance to Semifinals. The bands that are seeded #7-20 compete in Quarterfinals, with the six highest scoring bands in both classes 4A and 5A advancing to Semifinals. 

In odd numbered years the 4A Class will perform first in Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Finals. In even numbered years, the 5A Class will perform first. 

Please give yourself extra time to go through security upon entering the base, to find parking, and make your way to the seating. All adults entering the base may be asked to provide photo ID even if you are not driving. The stadium is currently under construction and might lead to additional time in finding parking and getting to the seating. Only clear bags will be allowed into the AFA stadium. 

IMPORTANT NOTICE

There is an added security measure in place for the Air Force Academy this year. Those 18 years of age and older who wish to attend the CBA State Championships at the Air Force Academy on October 24 and/or October 25 will need to complete one of the pre-registration processes below. Please do not wait until the last minute to complete this process!

US CITIZENS:

The base access link provided below is for anyone 18 years or older with a valid driver's license to obtain an entry pass that will be presented along with a REAL ID at the North Gate. All non-DOD ID holders that are 18 years or older (parents, family members, friends, etc.) must pre-register. 

Those who DO NOT need to complete the pre-registration process: DOD ID holders, anyone under the age of 18,  and those who have completed the link and received the approval message back.

Performing band students do not need to complete this process; however, ALL BAND STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THEIR STUDENT IDs IN THEIR POSSESSION.

Click HERE to access the Visitor Pre-Registration System. EVENT NAME: High School Marching Band Championships (20 Oct – 27 Oct). 

INTERNATIONAL GUESTS:

Non-US Citizens and International Guests will need to complete the EAL (Entry Authorization Letter) process to obtain an EAL access letter. These individuals will need to send a photocopy of their passport to Travis Oosthoek at the AFA Athletics office to obtain an EAL letter. Please include a reference to the Colorado State Marching Band Championships.

Tentative RV Competition Day Schedule:

Time TBD: Students arrive at RV

Time TBD: Trailer Drivers arrive at RV

Time TBD: Props/Pit Volunteers arrive at USAFA Falcon Stadium

Time TBD: Hospitality Volunteers arrive at USAFA Falcon Stadium

Time TBD: Performance (5A performs in the afternoon in 2025)

Time TBD: Meal

5:20 p.m.: Drum Major Retreat

Time TBD: Students arrive back at RV

Time TBD: Parents to pick up students at RV

Ticketing Information:

To purchase tickets in advance please go to: 

Quarterfinals Ticket Prices:

• Adults: $18

• Students/Seniors (65+): $14

• 9 and under: FREE

Per CBA Rules, pit crew and prop volunteers will be required to have a Field Pass wristband to enter the field and will be admitted to the FIELD ONLY. Pit crew and prop volunteers will not be admitted to the stands without a purchased attendance wristband.

Competition Schedule:

Parking and Other Details (Previous season info - will be updated when we have current info):

Detailed Maps for Pit/Props and Uniform Helpers:

For more information, visit the CBA 2025 State Championships website.