Cal Poly
Rose Float

Every year since 1949, Cal Poly Universities San Luis Obispo and Pomona have worked together to enter a float into the Tournament of Roses Parade. This float is the only entirely student designed, built, and operated float in the parade making this program a unique learning opportunity to the two campuses. By welcoming students of all majors and any skill level, Cal Poly Rose Float is a shining example of Cal Poly’s “Learn by Doing” motto.

How to get involved:
The theme for the upcoming 2026 parade year is The Magic in Teamwork. We are currently working on our float concept, which will be released on September 16th.If you are a SLO student and are interested in particpating in Rose Float, attend a Big Meeting to learn more and come to our lab days to get hands on experience. After lab days, come to our weekly department meetings to better stay connected and have a bigger impact.Stay updated on our Discord and email list. Check our progress on Instagram. Learn about our history on our YouTube and Website.

Upcoming Dates

  • 1st SLO Lab Day : 10-1 on September 20th at SLO Rose Float Lab

  • Big Meeting #1: 7pm on September 23rd in UU 220

  • 2nd SLO Lab Day : 10-1 on September 27th at SLO Rose Float Lab

  • Big Meeting #2: 7pm on October 1st in the Forum (UU)

  • 3nd SLO Lab Day : 10-1 on October 4th at SLO Rose Float Lab

  • Float Move Down: October 10th

  • 1st Joint Lab Day: October 11th. Sign ups open two weeks before joint lab days and close at noon on the following Tuesday.

Department Meetings

  • Deco Meetings: Will be posted soon

  • Design Meetings: Will be posted soon

  • Construction Meetings: Will be posted soon

  • Operations Meetings: Contact Chair

*Department Meetings will not be held during Week 10 or Finals Week