From Parade to Planting:
Where Do Weston's July 4 Float Plants Go? 

Ever wonder what happens to all the beautiful orchids and plants that decorate Weston's Fourth of July parade floats? 

They get a second life helping beautify our community. 

Each year, the City of Weston transforms hundreds of plants into eye-catching patriotic displays for the City Commission and Grand Marshal parade floats. After the last wave to the crowd, the work isn't over. Every plant is removed and replanted throughout the City's landscape.

This year, 267 plants, 94 orchids, two palms, and three trees were used to create the two floats. After delighting parade spectators, every one of them was relocated to City owned landscapes where they will continue to thrive and provide residents and visitors continued enjoyment. 

The plants — including vibrant Auntie Lou ti plants, Dwarf Ixora, Liriope ‘Super Blue’, Plumbago, Croton ‘Petra’, Boston ferns, and colorful bromeliads, were all replanted in City-owned right-of-way and green spaces, and now brighten locations including City Hall, Indian Trace Road, Bonaventure Boulevard, Three Village Road, and Country Isles Road.

It's a tradition that's as practical as it is beautiful. By giving these plants a permanent home, Weston not only created memorable parade floats but also invests in lasting landscape improvements throughout the community.  It's a simple idea with a big impact: enjoy them during the celebration, then let them continue beautifying the City for years to come.

It is one more way Weston  demonstrates its commitment to sustainability, thoughtful resource management and fiscal responsibility, and community pride. 

A special thank you goes to Thad Bielecki, Director of Landscaping and Andy Matusevich, Assistant Director of Landscaping, whose creativity, talent and dedication bring the City's parade floats to life each years and ensure their beauty continues long after the parade is over. 

All July 4 events and activities: Paid for by Property Taxes.