The 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade is set for January 1, 2026, and promises to be a vibrant celebration of “The Magic in Teamwork.” The event will showcase a variety of floats, marching bands, and equestrian units, weaving through a picturesque 5.5-mile route in Pasadena, California. This year’s lineup includes numerous entries designed to captivate audiences with elaborate floral displays and engaging performances.
A highlight of the parade is the Opening Spectacular, featuring yet-to-be-announced artists who will set the tone for the festivities. This follows a successful 2025 parade that kicked off with performances by Kiesza and Aloe Blacc. The parade is renowned for its elaborate floats, each adorned with tens of thousands of flowers and natural materials, promising a feast for the senses.
Notable Entries and Performers
Among the distinguished entries is the U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber, which will fly in from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. This multirole bomber, capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions, has greatly impacted military operations since its introduction. Coordinating its flight to align with the parade’s schedule exemplifies the meticulous planning that goes into this event.
Additionally, the United States Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard will represent the last remaining mounted color guard in the Marine Corps, showcasing palomino mustangs adopted through the Bureau of Land Management’s program. The Marine Corps West Coast Composite Band will also perform, featuring elite musicians from three bands, making it a unique collaborative experience.
The San Francisco Travel Association will debut its float, Believe in San Francisco, which celebrates the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39. This float will display over 100,000 flowers, including fluorescent orange marigolds and blue irises, creating a stunning visual representation of the city’s charm.
Community Spirit and Awards
The Homewood Patriot Band from Alabama will participate for the sixth time, continuing its tradition of representing the community with pride. Meanwhile, Magic Johnson, the legendary NBA player and entrepreneur, will serve as the Grand Marshal, riding in a vintage Lincoln-Zephyr Continental Cabriolet. His presence adds a distinguished touch to the parade, reflecting the event’s spirit of celebration and community involvement.
Kaiser Permanente’s float, A Better Idea for Health Care, will emphasize the importance of teamwork in healthcare, featuring nearly 75,000 flowers in its design. This demonstrates the organization’s commitment to community health and well-being.
Each entry is subject to change, with the final lineup confirmed closer to the date. The parade continues to evolve, with new floats and participating organizations reflecting the rich tapestry of cultures and communities across the nation.
The 2026 Rose Parade is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of attendees along the route and millions more watching from home, making it a beloved New Year’s Day tradition. As preparations continue, excitement builds for this floral spectacle that celebrates creativity, teamwork, and the spirit of community.
