The South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Committee is thrilled to unveil the design for its 2026 Rose Parade® float entry, “The Great Picnic Heist.” The playful concept brings this year’s theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” to life.
Chosen months before January’s devastating wildfires, the 2026 theme honors the spirit of collaboration among the organizations, agencies, and community members that make the Pasadena Tournament of Roses® New Year Celebration possible.
“The magic in teamwork is more than just a concept—it’s a reality we, and every self-built community, experience each year. It’s truly magical to bring a float rendering to life,” said longtime Decorating Chairperson Janet Benjamin.
Illustrated by local artist Renee Hoss-Johnson, “The Great Picnic Heist” depicts a whimsical tale of collaboration: a drowsy bear naps beside a picnic basket brimming with goodies as a team of cartoonish black ants cheekily work together to pull off a coordinated food heist. With its rich colors and charming storytelling, the float captures the imagination—and the spirit of collective effort.
Before transforming the float’s chassis—affectionately nicknamed “the beast”—into a floral masterpiece, members of the South Pasadena Tournament of Roses committee will ride down Mission Street on the float’s steel chassis during the Festival of Balloons Parade on July 4th. The Independence Day tradition celebrates the volunteers behind this 112-year-old tradition and gives the community a look at the massive transformation required.
Float construction ramps up in mid-July, with volunteer opportunities available for both the construction and decoration phases. To join the build crew, email construction@sptor.org. “Deco” squad sign-ups begin September 15th at www.sptor.org.
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