1/1/2026
PASADENA, CALIF. – Travel South Dakota Dakota’s Carved in Stone; A Legacy of Teamwork float in the 2026 Rose Parade® presented by Honda, has been awarded the “Americana Award.” The award recognizes the “most outstanding depiction of national treasures and traditions,” honoring the artistry and collaboration behind South Dakota’s most spectacular float yet at the 137th Rose Parade.
“As we kick off a new year and our nation’s 250th birthday, our goal is to share the bold spirit that defines South Dakota with millions of viewers around the world,” said James Hagen, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Tourism. “This award is a testament to the incredible teamwork behind the float and to the iconic landmarks and cultural treasures that make South Dakota an unforgettable destination.”
Travel South Dakota’s award-winning float showcased Mount Rushmore National Memorial alongside the signature experiences that draw nearly 15 million visitors to the state each year. Parade viewers saw South Dakota’s famous faces rise above a vibrant landscape of adventure — from thundering bison to the cultural reverence of the Dignity: Of Earth & Sky sculpture. The state’s natural beauty and heritage were brought to life through more than 40,000 floral elements, including corn, wheat, sunflowers, light blue iris petals, and palm bark that formed a bison’s coat.
South Dakota’s presence in Southern California extended beyond parade day. During Decorator’s Week in Pasadena, Travel South Dakota hosted immersive experiences featuring locally inspired treats, interactive moments, and social media-friendly activations that allowed visitors to interact directly with the state’s culture and creativity.
“It feels incredibly meaningful to engage with people who have yet to discover that South Dakota is their favorite road-trip getaway,” said Hagen. “We hope that this time next year, Californians and those who may be viewing the Rose Parade are reminiscing about their own experiences in South Dakota.”
The 2026 parade marked Travel South Dakota’s second appearance in the Rose Parade, following its first entry in 2016, and served as a national kickoff to America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Travel South Dakota’s Carved in Stone; A Legacy of Teamwork float was 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 and is led by Secretary James D. Hagen.
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Media Notes: See this link for photos of the 2026 Travel South Dakota Rose Parade float. See this link for a photo of the rendering of the 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 TournamentOfRoses.com, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X, and like us on Facebook.
CONTACT
Katlyn Svendsen, Global Public Relations & Content Services Senior Director
Travel South Dakota
Email: [email protected]