Five Points is preparing for its annual St. Pat’s celebration, and this year’s Grand Marshal is bringing a touch of pop superstardom to the parade route.

Elizabeth Burnett — a professional tribute artist known for her performances as Taylor Swift — has been selected to lead the Five Points St. Pat’s Parade on March 14, one of Columbia’s largest annual events.

A mother and wife, Burnett said her love for music began at an early age.

“I first heard ‘Tim McGraw’ on the radio when I was 12, and something just ignited in me,” Burnett said, referring to Swift’s 2006 debut single.

That spark grew into years of performing at birthday parties, nursing homes and events across the country — all while balancing college and family life. She said Swift’s music has remained a constant through every stage of her life.

“It’s been intertwined in every fabric of who I am,” Burnett said. “Going back and hearing songs now, it applies in different ways, especially being a mother.”

Burnett began studying Swift’s music closely, teaching herself guitar and building a performance career that mirrors the pop star’s signature style and stage presence.

“I downloaded her album, I learned to play guitar, I started singing her songs,” she said. “At this point in my life, it’s been so long, it’s ingrained in who I am.”

Now, Burnett is being honored with one of Columbia’s most visible roles: leading the St. Pat’s Parade through Five Points.

“It’s such an honor to be the Grand Marshal for Five Points’ St. Pat’s,” she said. “I’ve been going to this festival for years, and it’s a full-circle moment.”

In preparation for the event, Burnett is designing and handmaking her own St. Patrick’s Day costume, carefully sewing sequins and details herself.

“It’ll take 15 hours or so,” she said. “Dealing with sequins, one step forward, one step back, but it’ll always come together.”

Burnett said perseverance and self-belief have shaped both her career and this latest opportunity.

“Pushing yourself is so important and not stopping,” she said.

She hopes her journey will inspire not only her fans, but also her children, encouraging them to pursue their own fearless moments.

Burnett will lead the Five Points St. Pat’s Parade on March 14 in Columbia.