On New Year’s Day 2026, Canton, Mississippi’s iconic film legacy will be showcased on a national stage as part of Visit Mississippi’s official float in the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade. Canton’s movie history is being highlighted through the float’s theme, “Where Creativity Blooms,” which will spotlight the places and stories that have shaped Mississippi’s cultural identity.

Known as the “Movie Capital of Mississippi,” Canton’s inclusion reflects its long-standing role in film and its contribution to the state’s broader creative narrative.


Where Creativity Blooms

The Visit Mississippi float theme, “Where Creativity Blooms,” celebrates the state’s rich artistic heritage, spanning film, music, literature and visual arts. Canton’s featured presence honors decades of filmmaking that transformed its historic downtown and authentic Southern streetscapes into one of Mississippi’s most recognizable on-screen destinations.


Lights, Camera, Canton

Often referred to as the City of Lights, Canton has earned national recognition for its cinematic appeal. Its preserved architecture, walkable historic square and unmistakable Southern character have drawn filmmakers for decades.

Notable films shot in Canton include:

  •  A Time to Kill

  • My Dog Skip

  • O Brother, Where Art Thou?

Today, visitors can explore this legacy firsthand at Canton’s movie museums, which offer guided tours by appointment. These behind-the-scenes experiences give fans a closer look at how Canton’s streets, buildings and community helped bring Hollywood stories to life.


A National Moment for Mississippi Storytelling

The 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade marks Visit Mississippi’s second appearance in this iconic New Year’s tradition. With millions of viewers tuning in nationwide, the parade provides a powerful platform to showcase the state’s creative influence and cultural assets.

Through the float’s design and storytelling, Canton’s film heritage will be part of that spotlight—demonstrating how a small Mississippi town has played an outsized role in American film history.

Tune In and Celebrate

Whether you’ve strolled Canton’s historic square, visited its film sites or recognized it on the big screen, this moment belongs to everyone who values Mississippi’s creative communities.

Be sure to tune in to the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1, 2026, starting at 10 a.m. CST and watch Canton, Mississippi, shine in the national spotlight, proving once again why it proudly holds the title “Movie Capital of Mississippi.”