Roses, Cars, and Tunes: A Weekend Getaway to Thomasville’s Blooming Bash

If you’re itching for a change of scenery and a whiff of fresh floral air, I’ve got just the thing for you. Pack up the car, grab the kids (or just your favorite road trip buddy), and head down to Thomasville, Georgia, for a weekend that promises to be as colorful as it is fun. The 104th Annual Rose Show & Festival is happening on April 25th and 26th, and trust me, it’s worth the drive.

Picture this: a town where roses reign supreme, and the air is filled with the sweet scent of blooms. Thomasville is rolling out the red carpet—or should I say, the rose carpet—for visitors with a lineup of events that will make your heart sing. From flower shows to live music, and even a car and truck show, there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy.

Let’s start with the flowers, shall we? The festival kicks off on Friday morning with Orchids on Parade at the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium. If you’re like me and can’t keep a houseplant alive to save your life, prepare to be amazed by the stunning displays put together by the Thomasville Orchid Society. It’s like stepping into a botanical wonderland.

By the time you’ve had your fill of orchids, it’ll be time to mosey over to the Rose Tent at the corner of Broad Street and Remington Avenue. This is where the magic happens. The Rose Show, hosted by Thomasville’s Rose Society, is a feast for the eyes.

Roses of every color and variety will be on display, and you might even pick up a tip or two from the seasoned growers. If you’re feeling brave, you can even enter your own roses for judging. Just make sure to drop them off between 7 am and 10 am on Friday.

But wait, there’s more! The Thomasville Garden Club’s Annual Standard Flower Show at the Garden Center is another must-see. It’s like a gallery of nature’s finest art, with horticulture displays and floral designs that will leave you in awe.

As the sun sets on Friday, the historic Rose Parade will take to the streets, followed by a lively street dance featuring tunes from R&B, Inc. It’s the kind of small-town charm that makes you want to kick off your shoes and dance like nobody’s watching.

Saturday keeps the momentum going with the Civic Garden Club’s Flower Show opening at 10 am. The Rose City Symphonic Band will be there to serenade you as you wander through more beautiful blooms.

And if you’re in the mood for some shopping, the Rose Fest Market is the place to be. From 10 am to 4 pm, you can browse a variety of artisan vendors and food trucks. Who doesn’t love a good food truck?

Car enthusiasts, this one’s for you. The Show & Shine Car and Truck Show will be taking over the Historic Court House from 10 am to 2 pm. Sponsored by the Thomasville Police Department, this event will showcase over 100 unique vehicles. It’s like a candy store for car lovers.

And just when you think the weekend can’t get any better, it wraps up with the Rose Fest Finale at The Ritz Amphitheater. Local band Blue Burden will be rocking the stage starting at 6 pm, providing the perfect soundtrack to a weekend well spent.

With over 40,000 people expected to attend, Thomasville is going to be buzzing with excitement. And the best part? Admission is free! So, whether you’re a flower fanatic, a car connoisseur, or just someone looking for a fun weekend getaway, Thomasville’s Rose Show & Festival has got you covered.