The Fossil Band is gearing up for another once-a-year performance.

The Fossil Band only performs at the Pumpkin Parade and is a marching band composed of older people, and usually has 50 to 75 people. With only one performance a year, Fossil Band members are excited for Sunday’s event.

“It’s a lot of fun and people seem to get a kick out of us,” said Jim Kemnitz, Fossil Band snare drummer.

Kemnitz has performed with Fossil Band since 2003 and joined at a friend’s suggestion. Each year the band’s large lineup changes, with some members rookies and some returning veterans. Fossil Band consists of typical sections like brass and woodwinds, but the band has also featured some unusual instruments: violin, accordion and even a conch shell.

“Most of these people have been around since the inception of the whole idea of bringing all these old people in to march in the parade, as the Fossil Band is titled,” said Adrianne Kaplan, Fossil Band trumpet player.

Kaplan has also performed with the group since 2003 and loves the fun and carefree nature of performing with the Fossil Band.

“It’s so fun to march because it’s not regimental. You can wave to the kids, you can mingle with the audience, it’s a very friendly parade and atmosphere,” Kaplan said.

Some of the musicians are past drum corps and marching band members, and participating in the Pumpkin Parade with Fossil Band gives them a reason to play their instruments again.

“It’s just a little bit of fun to get together with a bunch of drummers I know and have a good time,” said Fossil Band drummer John Labarbera. “We don’t play anything real difficult, but everyone likes to perform and we get our 15 minutes of fame.”

Fossil Band welcomes members of all playing skill levels and marching experiences.

“People come from all over the Chicago area, some from Iowa, some from Wisconsin,” Kimnetz said. “Its about the camaraderie.”

With only one performance a year, Fossil Band keeps up its fan base by playing crowd-pleasing songs, Labarbera said.

Fossil Band is the 98th float in the Pumpkin Parade this year. The band travels through the parade route and stops at houses and bars afterwards for a little more celebration. The Fossil Band is excited for its upcoming performance on Sunday, Kimnetz said.