MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—One of Marion’s most storied traditions is returning to the field.
The Marion Arts Legacy Alliance (MALA) announced Wednesday it will take over hosting duties for the city’s annual drum corps event beginning in 2026. Rebranded as “The Marion Open,” the inaugural competition is scheduled for Thursday, July 30, 2026.
The event will be officially titled The 2026 Marion Open presented by Pillar Credit Union.
Founded in 2025, the nonprofit MALA was established to preserve Marion’s artistic history while expanding opportunities for youth and community members through cultural programming and live events.
“We are excited to bring the Open back home,” said Shawn Tyler II, founder and executive director of the MALA. “With the community’s support and a clear vision for the future, we’re reigniting Marion’s role as a hub for the arts.”
Organizers said the alliance will also produce year-round arts education programs to increase accessibility for local residents, moving beyond a single annual event to celebrate the city’s creative heritage.
Tyler credited the early support of Pillar Credit Union for making the revival possible.
“It means the world to have a hometown partner like Pillar Credit Union supporting this event from the very beginning,” Tyler said. “Christine Gibson, Eryn Gilmore, and the entire Pillar Board saw what we’re building and didn’t hesitate to get behind it.”
Tickets for The 2026 Marion Open are set to go on sale January 16, 2026.
More information can be found at malaohio.org or by following @malaohio on Instagram and The Marion Arts Legacy Alliance, Inc. on Facebook.