‘A long tradition’: Battle of Flowers volunteers reuse thousands of float flowers each year
The Battle of Flowers Parade is still months away, but the women behind its signature floats are already hard at work sorting, fluffing and preserving thousands of colorful flowers.
The Battle of Flowers Association, made up of 400 all-women volunteers known as the Ladies in Yellow, is preparing decorations for 22 floats.
“It is a long tradition, it is our gift to the community and we love doing this,” said Helen Meyer, vice president of court for the Battle of Flowers Association.
This year, the association is using about 8,000 vibrant flowers on its floats. Some are handmade in Mexico, and many have been used for years.
“I’m sure we’ve got some that are six to 10 years old,” Meyer said.
A few years ago, the association moved away from traditional paper flowers and began using plastic flowers so they would last longer.
“You cannot tell the difference when they’re on the float or even sitting here,” Meyer said. “And they also stand up really well to the environment.”
Meyer said that since making the switch, the association has not had to throw away the plastic flowers. Volunteers also work to revive foil and paper flowers each year.
Even flowers that no longer make the cut for parade floats are not wasted. Meyer said the association often donates them to other nonprofit organizations, schools and groups decorating for Fiesta events.
“It’s good stewardship of our finances and trying to keep these going and recycling them, as well as of our environment,” Meyer said.
That effort also helps the association put more money toward student scholarships and prizes. Suzie Feldmann, Battle of Flowers Parade vice president, said the group gave $121,000 to local students last year.
The Ladies in Yellow are expected to begin decorating the floats in March. The Battle of Flowers Parade is scheduled for April 23.
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