The Painted Ladies Rodeo Performers, one of the iconic components of the annual Folsom Pro Rodeo, are preparing to kick off the new year before a national audience—just as they have 10 different times in the past. Once again, the locally cherished Painted Ladies Rodeo Performers (PLRP) have been invited to perform in the 136th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena on New Year’s Day.
Returning to the nationally televised event, the local rodeo performers will ride down Pasadena’s Colorado Boulevard atop their stunning American Paint Horses. This marks the 10th time overall that the team has been selected to perform in the parade and their sixth consecutive year making the trip. The team first appeared in the parade in 2005.
In addition to their prominent role in the Folsom Pro Rodeo and other local events throughout the year, the Painted Ladies travel the country for various performances. While the Folsom Pro Rodeo is their hometown favorite, the Tournament of Roses Parade is a standout achievement for the accomplished team.
The Tournament of Roses Parade, rich in history and tradition since 1890, attracts more than 500,000 spectators who line Pasadena’s streets. It is viewed by over 70 million television viewers nationwide and internationally. For millions, the Rose Parade is an iconic New Year’s Day tradition.
Spanning 5 ½ miles along Colorado Boulevard, the parade features four main types of entries: floral-covered floats, equestrian units, marching bands, and Tournament Entries. Many participants have long-standing ties to the event, helping to preserve its traditions.
The earliest Tournament of Roses Parade, held in 1890, drew 3,000 spectators and showcased flower-covered, horse-drawn carriages. Over a century later, today’s parade floats are marvels of modern technology, concealed beneath flowers and all-natural materials.
Each year, more than 80,000 volunteer hours are contributed by the 935 members of the Tournament of Roses Association, known as “White Suiters” for their iconic uniforms. These dedicated volunteers donate evenings, weekends, and holidays to ensure the success of both the Rose Parade® and the Rose Bowl Game®.
The Rose Parade is broadcast live in the U.S. by several networks. Check local listings for more information on how to tune in.
In addition to their annual performances at the Folsom Pro Rodeo, the Painted Ladies have appeared at the televised Hangtown Motocross Classic, Folsom’s Fourth of July and Veterans Day parades, Sacramento River Cats games, the Sacramento Harvest Parade, and more. They have also been featured in the Hollywood Christmas Parade. Beyond their performances, the team gives back through the Painted Ladies Foundation, which helps people dealing with trauma and supports grieving children and young adults by leveraging the therapeutic power of their painted horses.
“The Painted Ladies have been an incredible contributor to the legacy of the Folsom Pro Rodeo. We will be cheering them on as they showcase their talents at the Rose Parade,” said Joe Gagliardi, CEO and president of Choose Folsom and the Folsom Chamber of Commerce, which presents the annual Folsom Pro Rodeo. “As we prepare to celebrate the 65th year of Folsom’s patriotic rodeo, we look forward to welcoming these equestrian stars back for another great year.”
The PLRP comprises a group of dedicated equestriennes who volunteer their time to promote their love of horses and equestrian drill, creating memorable performances for audiences.
“We take considerable pride in the fact that the sport of equestrian drill has afforded us many cherished opportunities throughout the years to give back to our community,” the PLRP said in a statement. “One of our most meaningful contributions has been resurrecting the Miss Folsom Pro Rodeo Queen contest, which engages hundreds of residents who come out to support the event and kick off the rodeo.”
Traveling to an event like the annual Rose Parade brings great pride but also considerable expense. To offset costs, the PLRP has been securing sponsorship donations for their journey. Sponsorships assist with entry fees, insurance, costumes, fresh floral arrangements, travel, and lodging expenses, all of which have grown more costly each year they’ve participated.
Founded by Jennifer Macias-Sweeney, who continues to lead the team today, the Painted Ladies have been performing together for three decades. Their high-energy drill routines, set to custom-mixed soundtracks featuring today’s hottest songs and nostalgic throwbacks, captivate audiences year after year.
Those wishing to donate or sponsor the Painted Ladies as they gallop toward Pasadena can do so through their official website at www.paintedladiesrodeo.com.
