Area marching bands are preparing to close their fall season with state wide competition this weekend.

The Pella, Knoxville, North Mahaska, and PCM bands will all participate in The Iowa High School Music Association State Marching Band Contest on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Pella High School. Director of Bands at Pella Jason Pentico says he’s been pleased with the competition season so far. The Pella Marching Dutch and PCM will then perform Saturday evening in Ankeny at the Mid-Iowa Band Championships.