Mississippi Returns to the Rose Parade, USAIBC Takes Center Stage
December 16, 2025
Mississippi is heading back to Pasadena for the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year's Day, and this time Jackson's world-class ballet legacy comes along for the ride. After last year's stunning debut drew 800,000 spectators and 27 million television viewers, Visit Mississippi returns with a float celebrating the state's artistic contributions. Jackson's USA International Ballet Competition (USAIBC) will be front and center.
Mississippi: Where Creativity Blooms
The 2026 float theme, "Mississippi: Where Creativity Blooms," showcases the full spectrum of the state's arts scene. Kermit the Frog anchors the centerpiece honoring Jim Henson's roots in Leland, while literary giants like Eudora Welty, William Faulkner, and Jesmyn Ward are celebrated throughout the design. Country artist Charlie Worsham will perform live on a stage wrapped in artwork inspired by the Walter Anderson Museum.
Jackson's Ballet Legacy on Display
But here's where Jackson truly shines: two ballet dancers will perform on the float, representing the USAIBC. It's one of only four such competitions in the entire world. Every four years, Jackson transforms into a global dance destination, hosting the planet's best young ballet talent at Thalia Mara Hall. The 2027 competition will mark the event's 50th anniversary, and this Rose Parade appearance serves as the perfect introduction to millions of potential visitors. When the competition returns in June 2027, gold medalists from five decades will take the stage for a golden anniversary celebration.
Watch the Parade
The 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade airs January 1 at 10 a.m. CST on ABC, NBC, and Univision. Watch live as Mississippi and Jackson's ballet legacy take one of the world's biggest stages.