Submissions Open Through Feb. 1

Have you ever wanted your work to be showcased on international television? This is your chance! Cal
Poly Rose Float is currently accepting submissions for the 2027 Rose Float Concept Contest through Feb. 5, 2026, at 5 p.m. This will be Cal Poly Universities 78th Float entry and the winning concept will cruise down Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena, Calif. as part of the 138th Rose Parade which will be held on Jan. 1, 2027.

Anyone is welcome to submit a concept, and the winner will choose between two tickets to the 2027
Rose Parade or a $500 cash prize. The theme of the 2027 Rose Parade is: “WELCOME”. The 2027 theme celebrates the simple joy of belonging—that feeling that you’re always welcome, no matter who or where you are. It’s the warmth of family—whether related or chosen, the love of good friends, and the welcoming embrace of community.

Completed submissions must be emailed to Rosefloat@cpp.edu with the subject line “2027 Concept.”
Submissions must be color or black and white and no larger than 11-by-17 inches, with the applicant’s name, phone number, and email included in the email, NOT ON THE RENDER. Received submissions should only have been submitted to Cal Poly Rose Float and will become the property of such once received. There is no limit to the number of entries an individual can submit. Students on the Rose Float leadership team from both San Luis Obispo and Pomona will review the submissions and vote on the winning concept, which will provide the basis for the 2027 final design.

The Cal Poly Rose Float is the only student-built float in the Rose Parade and has been invited to
participate for 78 consecutive years.

For questions or more information, contact:
Josh D’Acquisto at (805) 756-1182 or at jdacquis@calpoly.edu 
Cary Khatab at (909) 869-3204 or at kkhatab@cpp.edu 

Follow the Rose Float Facebook, Rose Float Instagram, and Rose Float Twitter for news and
contest updates. Happy designing!