THOMASVILLE- Thomasville’s 104th Annual Rose Show & Festival, happening April 25-26, will feature stunning rose and flower shows, a lively parade, concerts, a car and truck show, artisan market, and more. This year’s theme has just been announced, and applications are now open for many of the exciting activities planned for this beloved community celebration.

One of the festival’s highlights, the Rose Parade, will march through Downtown Thomasville on April 25 at 7:00 p.m., bringing floats, performances, and community fun. Awards will be given to the best entries including the Queen’s Award ($300) for best overall entry, the King’s Award ($200) for most creative use of this year’s theme, and the Rose Bud Award ($200) for the best children’s entry. Parade applications are due by April 4.

Anyone in the community can participate in this year’s parade, including bands, floats, walking units, vehicles, or performers. 

“We hope this year’s theme of ‘Where Roses Reign…Heritage Blooms’ encourages you to think of the Rose Festival traditions you love in new and creative ways,” said Cassidee Brooks, City of Thomasville Special Events Coordinator. “The Rose Parade is always a highlight of our Rose Festival, so we encourage your organization to get involved and have fun this year.”

Applications are also currently being accepted for food and artisan vendors at this year’s Rose Fest Market. Held April 26 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., this event features handcrafted artisans and makers, food trucks, music, children’s activities, and fun throughout the afternoon. The food vendor application deadline is March 14.

Of course, this year’s event wouldn’t be possible without beautiful flower shows, including the 104th Rose Show. Larger than life photo ops, beautifully hand-painted rose signs lining Broad Street, and the much-loved Roses in Restaurants, where local restaurants and eateries create exclusive rose-inspired dishes, drinks, and desserts, all come together to create a fun-filled celebration. 

“The Rose Festival is the perfect outdoor setting for family fun in the springtime,” noted Brandy Avery, City of Thomasville Main Street Director. “Join us for an entire weekend celebration of roses and flowers set against the beautiful backdrop of Downtown Thomasville.” 

Thomasville’s Rose Show and Festival kicks-off at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 25 and concludes the night of April 26. Vendor and parade applications can be found online by visiting downtownthomasville.com/rose. For additional information, contact the Thomasville Visitors Center at (229) 228-7977.