Color guard and winter guard have similar origins, but they diverge in many ways. Color guard has been around since the Civil War era, and winter guard evolved from color guard in the 1970s. Both have their challenges and allow performers to compete. Here are the differences and similarities between the two practices: Color Guard Established as a military practice around 1805, color guard has a long history and has remained somewhat unchanged. From the beginning, ceremonies involved military symbols like flags, banners, mock rifles and sabers. In the 1970s and 1980s, color guard became associated with sporting events. Routines accompany marching bands or orchestras. Most color guard performances go along with a marching band show at a football game. This dictates color guard season, which takes place from summer to fall. Winter Guard Following in color guard’s footsteps, winter guard had modest beginnings. The first performances included rifle twirling and stomping but no music. This was until the founding of Winter Guard International in 1977, which formalized the practice. Performances then began to blend costumes, movement and dance. Acts evolved to include flags, rifles, sabers and other equipment. Unlike color guard, winter guard is performed indoors to recorded music. That makes winter guard teams independent of marching bands or other groups. Winter guard is a performance all its own, with an emphasis placed on competitions. The winter guard season takes place from February through April. Similarities While color guard’s origins go way back, the modern version came into existence in the 1970s, around the same time as winter guard. Both types of performance involve flags, banners, mock rifles and sabers. They’re considered competitive sports, though winter guard teams exist almost exclusively for competitions. For the performers, color guard and winter guard both involve intense practice and competition, as well as traveling. Neither sport is for the faint of heart. Whether you’re in color guard or winter guard, Star Line Baton has props and accessories that can help you shine. Give us a call at 931-528-7829 to learn more.

Posted: 2/4/2022