Mississippi will be on display during one of the most popular New Year’s Day celebrations in the U.S.
Officials with Visit Mississippi announced that the Magnolia State will have a float in the upcoming Tournament of Roses — commonly known as the Rose Parade. The float is titled “Birthplace of America’s Music” and pays tribute to iconic musicians Elvis Presley and B.B. King.
Representing Mississippi on the float will be Governor Tate Reeves and some popular homegrown talent from the music ranks.
“On the front of the float is going to be Elvis. On the back is going to be B.B. King,” State Rep. Greg Haney of Gulfport said on MidDays with Gerard Gibert. “The governor and his family will be on it. I heard Chapel Hart and another Mississippi artist is going to be on there.”
The 136th Rose Parade will kick off on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at 10 a.m. CT and will run until noon. Tennis icon Billie Jean King was named the parade’s grand marshal and will participate in pregame ceremonies during the 111th Rose Bowl Game.
“Join us as we highlight the talented artists and musicians who have called Mississippi home and celebrate the rich musical heritage that has shaped the world,” a press release from Visit Mississippi reads. “Mark your calendars for January 1 and get ready to cheer for Mississippi as we take center stage! Let’s show the world why we’re the Birthplace of America’s music!”
In addition to the Mississippi-themed float on display, Jackson State University’s marching band, the Sonic Boom of the South, is set to perform at the world-famous event.
And who knows? With high hopes amplifying for the No. 9 Ole Miss football team, maybe Mississippi will also be featured in the Rose Bowl Game — a quarterfinal contest in the upcoming College Football Playoff — as Lane Kiffin and company look to make history.
