Thomasville Prepares for Annual Memorial Day Parade
In some communities, patriotism is observed. In Thomasville, it is part of daily life.
Each year, thousands gather for what is widely known as the largest Memorial Day parade and celebration in the Southeast. The Veterans Memorial Wall just off Interstate 85 stands as a lasting tribute to service and sacrifice. Throughout the year, ceremonies and recognitions honor veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families. Thomasville is also home to Holly Hill Cares, a nonprofit devoted to honoring and supporting veterans and first responders by providing meaningful assistance, connection, and care beyond the uniform.
As the 250th anniversary of the United States approaches, Thomasville is preparing to mark the occasion in a manner consistent with its character and values — and with genuine enthusiasm across the community.
The Thomasville Tourism Commission and the High Point-Thomasville HiToms, in partnership with city leaders, business owners, civic organizations, and others valuable community members have established the Thomasville 250 Committee to guide the city’s participation in America’s semiquincentennial. The Tourism Commission is serving as the coordinating body for the initiative, helping convene partners and facilitate planning efforts. Organizers emphasize that Thomasville 250 is intentionally structured as a broad-based community endeavor, shaped by multiple voices and organizations working together. Committee members describe a growing sense of momentum and excitement as plans take shape.
For Thomasville, this milestone is not simply about commemoration. It is an opportunity to reflect on the principles that have shaped the community and to consider how those principles will be carried forward.
Planning is underway for several meaningful initiatives that will unfold throughout the anniversary year, including a patriotic enhancement connected to one of Thomasville’s most iconic landmarks. Additional efforts will highlight the city’s heritage, its respect for service, and its enduring civic pride. Early conversations have already generated strong community interest, reinforcing the belief that this anniversary year will be both meaningful and memorable.
As its first official action, the Committee is launching a High School Logo Design Contest, inviting students from three local high schools to create the official Thomasville 250 logo. The selected design will become the visual identity of the initiative, appearing on promotional materials, merchandise, digital platforms, and public-facing elements throughout the year. The winning student will receive a $250 award and public recognition for contributing to a significant civic moment. The official logo will be revealed during the second week of March.
“This anniversary is not simply about looking back,” said Greg Suire, representative of the Committee. “It is about ensuring that the next generation feels ownership in the future of our community and our country. Our students are the future of America, and their voices deserve a place in shaping this moment.”
Beginning with students reflects a deliberate choice. Thomasville 250 is not intended to be symbolic alone. It is designed to cultivate ownership, pride, and participation among the very generation that will define the city’s future.
Thomasville 250 reflects the character of the city itself: steady, grateful, forward-looking, and proud. It offers residents and visitors an opportunity to witness how a community known for honoring service and tradition prepares for its next chapter.
For those who already know Thomasville, this initiative reinforces what they value about the city. For those who have yet to visit, it presents a timely reason to do so. Those planning spring and summer travel may find this an ideal time to rediscover Thomasville. As the anniversary year unfolds, the community will continue building anticipation around projects and moments that celebrate both history and possibility.
Thomasville is preparing for 250 years the way it has approached generations before, with steadiness, gratitude, confidence — and unmistakable excitement. Stay tuned.
