The Pasadena Tournament of Roses announced on January 1, 2025, that the prestigious Sweepstakes Award for the most beautiful float was awarded to Cal Poly Universities. This recognition marks a significant achievement, as it is the first time the university has claimed this honor and the seventh time an entirely self-built float has received the award.
A total of 23 floats were recognized for excellence across various categories during the event. The awards highlight creativity, innovation, and artistic design, showcasing the diverse talents of participants. Among the notable winners were the City of Alhambra, which received the Bob Hope Humor Award for its whimsical float, and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, honored for the Grand Marshal Award, exemplifying outstanding creative concept and design.
Overview of Award Categories
The awarded categories reflect the Rose Parade’s commitment to celebrating beauty and creativity. The floats recognized include:
– **Americana**: South Dakota (AES) for a depiction of national treasures and traditions.
– **Animation**: Kindness is Free powered by Boys & Girls Clubs of WSGV&E (AES) for outstanding use of animation.
– **Fantasy**: Rising Together (AES) for its imaginative display.
– **Founder**: Downey Rose Float Association for a float built by community volunteers.
– **Presidential**: OneLegacy Donate Life (AES) for exemplary use and presentation of flowers.
The Sweepstakes Trophy remains the most coveted award, as it encompasses float design, floral presentation, and entertainment value, elevating the winning float above all other entries.
Meet the Esteemed Judges
This year’s judging panel included experts from various backgrounds, ensuring a diverse evaluation of the floats. Cathy Hillen-Rulloda, a certified floral judge and instructor, has gained recognition for her designs, which have graced high-profile events, including the 1984 Olympic Games. Doris Hardoon has a notable background with Disney, contributing to the early design of EPCOT and holding significant roles in landmark projects such as the Shanghai Disney Resort. Chaz Perea, currently the landscape manager at Dodger Stadium, has transformed the venue into the first U.S. sports arena accredited as a botanic garden.
Each judge brought a wealth of experience and creativity, contributing to the selection of 24 float awards that celebrate excellence in float design, floral presentation, and entertainment value.
The Rose Parade continues to serve as a platform for community engagement and artistic expression, attracting thousands of visitors and participants each year. As it approaches its 137th event, the traditions of beauty and innovation remain at the forefront, ensuring that the legacy of the Rose Parade endures.
