The Rose Parade’s prestigious 2025 Sweepstakes Award, given to the most beautiful entry, has been awarded to Cal Poly Universities. This marks a significant achievement as it is the first time the institution has received this honor, adding to the history of self-built floats recognized with the esteemed Sweepstakes Trophy. The announcement was made early on January 1, 2025, by the Pasadena Tournament of Roses.
In total, the tournament recognized 23 floats, celebrating excellence across various categories. Among the notable winners were:
– **Americana**: Most outstanding depiction of national treasures and traditions – *South Dakota (AES)*
– **Animation**: Most outstanding use of animation – *Kindness is Free Powered by Boys & Girls Clubs of WSGV&E (AES)*
– **Bob Hope Humor**: Most whimsical float – *City of Alhambra (Phoenix)*
– **Crown City Innovator**: Most outstanding use of imagination, innovation, and technology – *Shrinking, Apple TV and Warner Bros. Television (Phoenix)*
– **Extraordinaire**: Most extraordinary float – *San Francisco Travel Association (Fiesta)*
Other awards included categories for artistic design, floral presentation, and community involvement, showcasing the creativity and effort put forth by participants. For example, the Downey Rose Float Association received the Founder Award for its outstanding float built by volunteers.
The Grand Marshal Award, recognizing the most outstanding creative concept and float design, went to *San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (AES)*. Meanwhile, the Queen Award for the most outstanding presentation of roses was awarded to *City of Santa Fe Springs (Phoenix)*.
About the Judging Panel
This year’s panel of judges for the float awards included a diverse group of esteemed professionals. Notable members include Cathy Hillen-Rulloda, a certified floral judge and instructor; Doris Hardoon, a former Disney executive with a rich background in theme park design; and Chaz Perea, the landscape manager at Dodger Stadium and a horticulture professor at Mt. San Antonio College.
Each year, this three-person panel selects 24 float awards, emphasizing categories such as float design, floral presentation, and entertainment value. The Sweepstakes Trophy is considered the most coveted award of the event, reflecting the highest standard of creativity and execution.
Hillen-Rulloda, who has garnered top honors in numerous competitions, returns to the Rose Parade to celebrate the 50th anniversary of her own participation as part of the St. Albans, West Virginia high school marching band.
Community Engagement and Future Outlook
The Rose Parade continues to showcase the creativity and dedication of communities across the nation. With a commitment to excellence, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses fosters an environment where participants can express their artistic vision while engaging with the public.
As the parade looks ahead to future events, including the upcoming 2026 Rose Parade, anticipation builds for innovative designs and community involvement. The awards announced this year highlight the enduring appeal of the Rose Parade and the spirit of collaboration it inspires among participants.
The celebration of creativity, tradition, and community spirit at the Rose Parade not only honors the artistry involved but also unites people in a shared experience that continues to resonate year after year.
