From breathtaking rose and flower shows to lively concerts, a stunning car and truck show and the beloved Rose Parade, Thomasville, Georgia, is gearing up to host the 104th Annual Rose Show & Festival on April 25th-26th. This fun-filled, family-friendly event promises a vibrant celebration of blooming roses and stunning floral displays.
“The Rose Show & Festival is packed full of family-friendly activities throughout the entire weekend,” said Community Engagement Manager Brandy Avery. “Live music, children’s activities, and our car & truck show, in addition to our flower shows and parade, make the perfect weekend getaway in Thomasville.”
Throughout the weekend, roses, beautiful floral displays, and more will be on exhibit during four historic flower shows, including Orchids on Parade, the Annual Rose Show, the Standard Flower Show, and the Civic Garden Club Flower Show.
The 104th annual event will kick-off on Friday, April 25th at 9 am with Orchids on Parade at the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium, featuring beautiful displays of orchids hosted by the Thomasville Orchid Society. At 1 pm the doors of the Rose Tent will open for the Rose Show hosted by Thomasville’s Rose Society. The rose-filled tent, featuring rose growers of all ages and skill levels, will be located at the corner of Broad Street and Remington Avenue. Anyone interested in entering roses into this year’s show can bring their entries to the back of the Rose Tent on Friday between 7 am and 10 am for judging.
At 2 pm, the Thomasville Garden Club will host their Annual Standard Flower Show at the Thomasville Garden Center. The show features stunning horticulture displays and floral designs. A free children’s butterfly activity will be held Saturday from 10 am – noon.
The historic Rose Parade and Street Dance featuring live music by R&B, Inc. will cap off the eventful first day of the annual event.
Flower shows continue Saturday, April 26th with the opening of the Civic Garden Club’s Flower Show. Beautiful roses, wildflowers, hanging baskets, and more will grace another big top tent close to The Ritz Amphitheater. The Rose City Symphonic Band will entertain attendees for the opening of the show at 10 am.
On Saturday, visitors can also enjoy the Rose Fest Market from 10 am – 4 pm, featuring a diverse selection of artisan vendors and food trucks. The Show & Shine Car and Truck Show will take over the Historic Court House from 10 am – 2pm. Sponsored by the Thomasville Police Department, the popular event will showcase over 100 unique vehicles. The weekend concludes with the Rose Fest Finale at The Ritz Amphitheater, where attendees can enjoy a live concert by the beloved local band, Blue Burden beginning at 6 pm.
Over 40,000 people are expected in Thomasville during this year’s event. Admission is free and open to the public. All flower and rose shows feature a special ribbon cutting ceremony with local dignitaries and Thomasville’s Rose Queen and her Court.
For more information, call the Thomasville Visitor’s Center at 229-228-7977 or visit www.downtownthomasville.com to view a full list of events.