From breathtaking rose exhibitions and vibrant floral displays to live music, a classic car and truck show, and the beloved Rose Parade, Thomasville, Georgia is preparing to host the 105th Annual Rose Show & Festival on April 24-25. This family-friendly weekend promises a lively celebration of roses in full bloom along with the beauty of spring.
“The Rose Show & Festival is packed with family-friendly activities all weekend long,” said Community Engagement Manager Brandy Avery. “With live music, children’s activities, our car and truck show, plus the flower shows and parade, it’s the perfect way to spend a weekend in Thomasville.”
Throughout the Festival, visitors can enjoy four historic flower shows featuring roses, orchids, and creative floral designs: Orchids on Parade, the Annual Rose Show, the Standard Flower Show, and the Civic Garden Club Flower Show.
The kick-off event is Friday, April 24 at 9 a.m. with Orchids on Parade at the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium, showcasing stunning orchid displays presented by the Thomasville Orchid Society. At 1 p.m., the Rose Tent opens at the corner of Broad Street and Remington Avenue for the Annual Rose Show, hosted by the Thomasville Rose Society. Growers of all ages and skill levels will present their finest blooms. Those interested in entering roses may submit entries at the back of the Rose Tent between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Friday for judging. At 2 p.m., the Thomasville Garden Club will host the Annual Standard Flower Show at the Thomasville Garden Center, featuring impressive horticultural exhibits and artistic floral designs.
Friday’s festivities conclude with the historic Rose Parade, followed by a street dance featuring live music from The Ray Howard Band.
Flower shows continue Saturday, April 25 with the opening of the Civic Garden Club Flower Show near The Ritz Amphitheater. Guests can enjoy displays of roses, wildflowers, hanging baskets, and more under the big top tent. The Rose City Symphonic Band will perform during the show’s 10 a.m. opening, followed by the Thomas University Jazz Band from noon to 2 p.m.
Saturday also features the Rose Fest Market at The Ritz Amphitheater from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering artisan vendors and a variety of food trucks. Local dance groups will perform from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the amphitheater stage.
Car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Show & Shine Car and Truck Show, taking place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. around the Historic Courthouse. Sponsored by the Thomasville Police Department, the event will showcase more than 100 unique vehicles.
Free trolley rides will be available throughout the day on April 25, providing convenient transportation between Festival locations.
The weekend concludes with the Rose Fest Finale Concert and Drone Show at The Ritz Amphitheater, featuring a live performance by local favorite Dana King beginning at 6 p.m. At 8:45 p.m., attendees can look to the sky for a dazzling 15-minute synchronized drone show. Food trucks will also be on site during this event.
More than 40,000 visitors are expected to attend this year’s Festival. Admission is free and open to the public. Each flower and rose show will include a special ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring local dignitaries and Thomasville’s Rose Queen and her Court.
For more information, contact the City of Thomasville’s Marketing Department at 229-227-4136 or please CLICK HERE for a full schedule of events.