PASADENA, Calif. (December 9, 2025) – Today, the Tournament of Roses announces the 2026
Mid-Parade Performance presented by Visit Mississippi. The float, “Mississippi: Where Creativity Blooms,” is a visual symphony celebrating the state’s artistic icons, literary legends and homegrown talent, highlighting Mississippi’s deep cultural roots and creative spirit. From blues to country, literature to ballet, the float will showcase the many creatives who have shaped Mississippi’s identity and influenced the world.
Adding to the artistic flair, Mississippi native and country music star Charlie Worsham will perform live on the float, accompanied by dancers, bringing the state’s artistic excellence to life.
Charlie Worsham, the pride of Mississippi, has shared stages with Taylor Swift, Miranda Lambert, and Eric Church, co-written songs for Dierks Bentley and Kenny Chesney, performed more than 100 times on the Grand Ole Opry, and sparked a few viral moments with his song “Could It Be.” This once-in-a-lifetime performance proves why Mississippi’s creative heart beats louder—and prouder—than ever.
The centerpiece of “Mississippi: Where Creativity Blooms” features Kermit the Frog, representing Mississippian Jim Henson’s Muppets. The float’s stage is wrapped in artwork inspired by Walter Anderson, adding a whimsical and colorful touch. Directional signage will symbolically point viewers toward places across Mississippi that honor and inspire creativity. Books stacked atop the float will symbolize Mississippi’s contributions to the visual, musical, literary, and cinematic arts, adorned with iconic book covers from works by Mississippi authors Jesmyn Ward, Tennessee Williams, Willie Morris, William Faulkner, Eudora Welty and Greg Iles.
The Visit Mississippi float is a vibrant tribute to the creative spirit that thrives across the Magnolia State! Go to Visit Mississippi for more details.
Join us on New Year’s Day when millions around the world experience the floral wonder of the 137th Rose Parade® presented by Honda beginning at 8 a.m. PST.
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Media contact: Candy Carlson – CCarlson@tournamentofroses.com, 310-749-2820.
About the Pasadena Tournament of Roses®
The Pasadena Tournament of Roses® is a volunteer organization that hosts America’s New Year Celebration® with the Rose Parade® presented by Honda, the Rose Bowl Game® presented by Prudential and a variety of accompanying events. The Association’s 935 Members supply more than 80,000 volunteer hours, which will drive the success of the 137th Rose Parade, themed “The Magic in Teamwork,” on Thursday, January 1, 2026, followed by the College Football Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential. Visit www.tournamentofroses.com, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X and like us on Facebook.
About Visit Mississippi
Celebrated as The Hospitality State and proudly known as the Birthplace of America’s Music, Mississippi invites visitors to experience a rich tapestry of culture, history, and unforgettable adventures. From the soulful sounds of the Delta to the serene beauty of the Gulf Coast and Appalachian foothills, Mississippi is a destination where every journey tells a story. Visit Mississippi, a division of the Mississippi Development Authority, serves as the state’s official destination marketing organization. As storytellers and cultural ambassadors, we champion Mississippi through strategic global marketing, innovative partnerships, and creative collaboration. Our mission is to elevate the state’s thriving tourism economy and inspire visitors from around the world to discover the magic that is Mississippi.
