The 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade is set to take place on January 1, 2026, in Pasadena, California, showcasing a vibrant display of floral artistry, musical talent, and equestrian excellence. This year’s theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” promises a captivating celebration featuring numerous floats adorned with flowers, marching bands, and equestrian units.
The parade, which stretches over 5.5 miles, will kick off with an Opening Spectacular that has yet to be announced. Past performances, such as those by singers Kiesza and Aloe Blacc in 2025, set a high bar for entertainment, and anticipation is building for this year’s lineup.
Highlights of the Parade
Among the notable entries is the float by Honda, celebrating their long-standing partnership with the Tournament of Roses. Although not competing for awards, Honda’s float has historically garnered attention, winning 15 trophies between 1995 and 2010. This float will measure 16 feet in height, 18 feet in width, and 55 feet in length, though the number of flowers used has not been disclosed.
Another significant highlight will be the appearance of a U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber, flying from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri directly over the parade route. This multirole bomber, known for its advanced technology, captured global attention during its last military engagement in June 2025. U.S. Air Force Colonel Keith J. Butler, who piloted the bomber during a previous parade, described the event as a “bucket list item.”
The United States Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard, featuring palomino mustangs, will also make an appearance, representing the last remaining mounted color guard in the Marine Corps. Marshal Sgt. Maggie Hardy will lead this unit, showcasing the bond between horses and riders.
A Celebration of Community and Creativity
The parade will also spotlight contributions from various communities and organizations. For instance, the San Francisco Travel Association will debut a float that highlights iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. This float will feature over 100,000 flowers, including 15,000 fluorescent orange marigolds symbolizing California poppies.
“San Francisco has been represented in the Rose Parade 30 times, showcasing the city’s vibrant culture,”
said a representative from the San Francisco Travel Association.
Kiwanis International will present a whimsical float featuring a family of hippos enjoying their day at a watering hole, crafted with over 14,500 flowers. This entry is part of Kiwanis’ mission to serve children and communities globally and marks their 44th Rose Parade appearance.
In a nod to sporting excellence, Magic Johnson, celebrated NBA player, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 2026 parade. Known for his five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers, Johnson will ride in a vintage Lincoln-Zephyr Continental Cabriolet, adorned with floral designs reflecting the Lakers’ colors.
The parade will conclude with a performance by Capital Cities, a Grammy-nominated band, ensuring a vibrant finale to this annual spectacle.
As the excitement builds for the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade, spectators from around the world will gather to witness this extraordinary display of teamwork, creativity, and community spirit. With a lineup promising to dazzle and entertain, the parade remains a cherished tradition that heralds the New Year in style.
