Mississippi will once again be on display during the world-famous Rose Parade.
Visit Mississippi announced Tuesday that the state’s tourism arm will make its third appearance in the iconic Pasadena New Year’s celebration. This newest float, “Mississippi: Where Hospitality is Always on the Menu,” aims to highlight the Magnolia State’s culinary scene and landscape
Designed and fabricated by Artistic Entertainment Services, the culinary-themed float transforms the parade route into an outdoor gathering place. From fresh Gulf seafood and picturesque landscapes to hospitality, the float is being designed to showcase a place where there is always room at the table.
At the heart of the float is the Mississippi Café, a welcoming open-air dining experience beneath a sprawling magnolia tree. Guests gathered around the table will enjoy local fare alongside a special performance from Mississippian and American Idol Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts.
The setting is surrounded by elements that tell the story of Mississippi’s landscape and culinary heritage. A lighthouse and fresh Gulf seafood evoke the state’s coastal shores, while flowing fresh and salt waterways, native flora, and local produce create a vibrant visual journey throughout the state.
“Mississippi hospitality is something you have to experience to truly understand,” Visit Mississippi Executive Director Rochelle Hicks said. “It’s the invitation to pull up a chair, stay awhile, share a meal and enjoy the music. ‘Where Hospitality is Always on the Menu’ captures that spirit beautifully, showcasing the incredible food, music, and landscapes that visitors can experience throughout Mississippi.”
The 2027 appearance marks Visit Mississippi’s third consecutive participation in the Rose Parade, following the state’s previous floats celebrating Mississippi’s musical legacy and cultural heritage. The upcoming Rose Parade will take place on Jan. 1, 2027. It will air on ABC.