The Sweepstakes Trophy winner “Jungle Jumpstart” (Photo – calpolypomona)
The 137th Rose Parade, held on New Year’s Day, saw Cal Poly Universities take home the prestigious Sweepstakes Trophy for their stunning float, “Jungle Jumpstart.”
By Rena Kurlander
The award, presented annually since 1924, recognizes the best overall float in the parade. Cal Poly’s entry captivated crowds with its creative design and teamwork-driven story.
The “Jungle Jumpstart” float featured a team of rainforest animals, led by a jaguar, monkey, and other wildlife, working together to repair a robot named Lunchbox. The float, a remarkable student-built creation, showcased the theme of collaboration and innovation. The design incorporated over 21,000 flowers, as well as unique materials like ground coffee beans and walnut shells, adding texture and depth to the vibrant rainforest scene.
The float’s success is a testament to the dedication and creativity of the students at Cal Poly Universities, who were responsible for both the engineering and artistic aspects of the project. It also highlights the university’s long-standing commitment to hands-on learning and teamwork.
Other Notable Award Winners
Several other floats were honored at the parade for their exceptional creativity and craftsmanship, each receiving prestigious awards:
- Americana Award:
“Carved in Stone: A Legacy of Teamwork” by Travel South Dakota, recognized for its outstanding depiction of national treasures and traditions. - Animation Award:
“Building Kinder Communities” by the Boys & Girls Clubs of the West San Gabriel Valley and Eastside, praised for its innovative use of animation. - Bob Hope Humor Award:
“Bee Magical Together” by the City of Alhambra, which charmed spectators with its whimsical design. - Crown City Innovator Award:
“We’re Getting There. Together” by the “Shrinking” TV series, produced by Apple TV and Warner Bros., celebrated for its use of imagination, innovation, and technology. - Director’s Award:
“Sharing Skills for Success” by The UPS Store, recognized for its artistic design and skillful use of both floral and non-floral materials. - Extraordinaire Award:
“Believe In San Francisco” by San Francisco Travel Association, named for its extraordinary design and execution. - Fantasy Award:
“Rising Together” by the California Community Foundation and Black Freedom Fund, offering a striking display of fantasy and imagination. - Golden State Award:
“Together We Grow” by Odd Fellows & Rebekahs, which stood out for its depiction of California life. - Grand Marshal Award:
“Giant Strides Together” by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, acclaimed for its creative concept and float design. - Mayor’s Award:
“Goin’ Nutz” by the La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Association, recognized for its outstanding presentation by a participating city. - President’s Award:
“Treasure Every Moment Together” by OneLegacy Donate Life, honored for its remarkable use of flowers.
These award-winning floats showcased a diverse range of creative expressions, from community pride to fantasy and national heritage, reflecting the wide-ranging talents of the float-building community.
Cal Poly winning float under the rain, Jan. 1, 2026 (Photo – Mike Pashistoran)
“Jungle Jumpstart” float by Cal Poly (Photo – calpolypomona)
Exquisite details of the float “Jungle Jumpstart” (Photo – calpolypomona)
The team posing in front of the winning float (Photo – calpolypomona)
If you check the official records, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance was awarded the Rose Parade Sweepstakes Trophy the last two years, not Cal Poly.
It’s been corrected. Thank you. Happy New Year.