The Proud History of La Canada Flintridge’s Rose Parade Float:

Every New Year’s Day, La Canada Flintridge rolls into the Pasadena Rose Parade with one of the most beloved self-built floats. This isn’t a corporate creation. Instead, volunteers build it with floral glue, late nights, and true hometown spirit.

I’ll admit something up front. I’ve never been to the parade because I don’t like crowds. In high school, some of my friends even slept on the streets overnight to get the best viewing spots. That was never my style. However, Countrywide Funding once gave me preferred-seating tickets. My husband used them and took our daughters when they were five and six. They still talk about it.

How It All Began

The La Canada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Association was formed in 1978. A small group of Kiwanis Club members applied for a float spot, expecting a long waiting list. Instead, they were accepted immediately. Suddenly, they had a parade entry but no float. The community jumped into action. Volunteers found a build site, gathered materials, sketched designs, and assembled something that moved—and impressed. By 1979, their first float, “Horse Play,” rolled down Colorado Boulevard. A tradition took root.

Powered by Volunteers

Unlike the large corporate floats, La Canada’s entry is truly self-built. Volunteers weld the frame, run wiring, test animation, paint, and plan lighting. Then they cover every inch with seeds, petals, bark, moss, straw, leaves, and thousands of flowers. Each year, 600–800 volunteers help. Families work side by side. Kids learn teamwork and responsibility. Longtime residents return annually, treating float season like a holiday.

Creative Highlights

Over the decades, the floats have showcased flying dodo birds, backyard inventors blasting off, raccoons running a circus, and sixties-style musicians. Last year, a drone was used for the first time at the Rose Parade. Some floats win awards. Others earn applause for their handmade charm and heart.

Why It Matters

The float has become part of La Canada Flintridge’s identity. It connects neighbors, bridges generations, and shows what a motivated community can build together. Even before the flowers are attached, the float already blooms—with effort, tradition, and shared pride.