Painchaud's Band, organized in 1870 by Pierre Painchaud, became the municipal band of Biddeford and performed for over 120 years. Considered the best band in New England, it had engagements throughout the northeastern U.S. and Canada and won many band contests in New England and Canada, including first prize in a Canadian contest in 1890. The band played in parades, concerts, religious processions, local halls, and bandstands such as the one in Clifford Park. On April 14, 1917, during a flag raising in support of World War I, the band paraded down Adams Street toward Main and Lincoln streets, with the Nickel Theater visible in the background.