Rosey results for Swift Current florist at prestigious event

Swift Current was well represented at one of the most iconic parades around the globe earlier this year. 

Local florist Poppy Parsons was invited to partake in the Rose Parade for the fifth consecutive time, where her project with Louisiana Office of Tourism took home the Showmanship award. 

Parsons explained that the accolade recognizes a float that successfully captivated the audience live and on TV, giving them something rich and exciting to ring in the new year.

“Louisiana loves a parade, so of course they're going to put on a show,” she said. “You still have to have all those things about florals, decor and the theme of the year—so Celebrating a World of Music. The Showmanship award takes it to that next level.” 

Parsons's float was part of the halftime show at this year's event. 

This isn’t the first big win for the small business owner. Parsons has worked tirelessly to create award-winning masterpieces every time she has volunteered at the event. 

The work begins on the 27 of December in Pasadena, California. From cleaning and preparing flowers to climbing scaffolding, Parsons does it all. 

Judging takes place early on Nea Years Eve morning, so the teams have four full days of work to complete the gargantuan pieces of floral art. Leading up to judging, Parsons stayed awake for roughly 32 hours to complete final touches on the float and find out the results. 

“It's phenomenal to come from small town Swift Current to be the only florist from Saskatchewan working on it,” she said. “I believe the only Canadian. It’s truly an honor to be included in that elite group of florists.” 

Parsons standing next to 125 centimetre freedom roses used on the 2024 Rose Parade float.