11/5/2025
PIERRE, S.D. – Travel South Dakota will kick off America’s 250th anniversary celebration on one of the nation’s most iconic stages: the Rose Parade® presented by Honda. On Jan. 1, 2026, the state will roll through Pasadena with its most spectacular float yet, showcasing South Dakota’s spirit, beauty and adventure to millions of viewers around the world.
Travel South Dakota’s float, named “Carved in Stone; A Legacy of Teamwork” will feature larger-than-life icons, cultural treasures, and the bold spirit that defines South Dakota with the focal point being Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The float will feature nearly 40,000 floral elements, including corn, wheat, sunflowers, textured rust cornsilk for the bison’s coat, and light blue iris petals.
Parade viewers can expect the state’s famous faces to rise above a landscape bursting with adventure, from thundering bison and the cultural reverence of the Dignity: of Earth and Sky sculpture to iconic native grasses and florals that showcase South Dakota’s beauty.
Nearly 15 million visitors journey to South Dakota each year to marvel at its monuments and explore the state's wide-open spaces, agritourism offerings, and unique cities. The float celebrates those unforgettable experiences while introducing the world to the flavors, heritage, and sense of wonder that make South Dakota more than just a stop along the way.
“As we kick off 2026 and our nation’s 250th birthday, our goal is to showcase the majesty of South Dakota to millions of viewers watching the parade around the world,” said James Hagen, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Tourism. “With our float, we’re highlighting the iconic landmarks that define South Dakota, and sharing some of our hidden treasures that make us an unforgettable destination.”
South Dakota's celebration in southern California will extend beyond the parade. During Decorator’s Week in Pasadena, the Travel South Dakota team will offer immersive experiences that give visitors a taste of the state, including locally inspired treats, interactive moments, and social media sharing opportunities.
This is Travel South Dakota’s second appearance in the Rose Parade, the first being 10 years ago in 2016.
Travel South Dakota’s 2026 “Carved in Stone; A Legacy of Teamwork” float is being designed and built by Artistic Entertainment Services.
The South Dakota Department of Tourism is comprised of Travel South Dakota and the South Dakota Arts Council. The department is led by Secretary James D. Hagen.
-30-
Media Notes: See this link for a photo of the rendering of Travel South Dakota’s “Carved in Stone; A Legacy of Teamwork” 2026 float.
About the Pasadena Tournament of Roses® and Rose Parade® presented by Honda:
The Pasadena Tournament of Roses® is a volunteer organization that hosts America’s New Year Celebration® with the Rose Parade® presented by Honda, the Rose Bowl Game® presented by Prudential and a variety of accompanying events. The Association’s 935 Members supply more than 80,000 volunteer hours, which will drive the success of the 137th Rose Parade, themed “The Magic in Teamwork,” on Thursday, January 1, 2026, followed by the College Football Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential. Visit www.tournamentofroses.com, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and X, and like us on Facebook.
CONTACT
Katlyn Svendsen, Global Public Relations & Content Services Senior Director
Travel South Dakota
Email: [email protected]