Announcing the 2026 Rose Parade Float Award Winners: Complete List
Cal Poly Universities Wins Top Honors at Rose Parade
LOS ANGELES — Cal Poly Universities claimed the prestigious 2026 Sweepstakes Trophy at the 137th Tournament of Roses Parade with their float "Jungle Jumpstart." Designed and constructed by students from Cal Poly Pomona and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, the float featured a lively depiction of rainforest animals working to repair a robot.
The entry stood out as the only student-designed and student-built float in the parade, showcasing an artistic vision that utilized 21,000 flowers alongside unique materials such as ground coffee beans and walnut shells. The narrative centered on a jaguar, monkey, and other creatures collaborating to revive a robot named Lunchbox.
A total of 43 floats participated in this year’s event, with 21 awards distributed to various entrants.
Among the notable awards presented were:
- Americana Award: "Carved in Stone; A Legacy of Teamwork" by Travel South Dakota
- Animation Award: "Building Kinder Communities" by Boys & Girls Clubs of the West San Gabriel Valley and Eastside
- Bob Hope Humor Award: "Bee Magical Together" by the City of Alhambra
- Crown City Innovator Award: "We’re Getting There. Together" by Apple TV and Warner Bros. Television Production
- Director’s Award: "Sharing Skills for Success" by The UPS Store
- Grand Marshal Award: "Giant Strides Together" by San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Despite challenging weather conditions, including historic rainfall, the Rose Parade proceeded as scheduled, marking a unique and wet New Year’s Day for this beloved tradition in Pasadena.
The competition highlighted creativity and community spirit, with many floats embodying this year’s theme, "Magic in Teamwork." Each awarded float conveyed significant artistic messaging and demonstrated excellence in design and floral presentation.
