Ever dreamed of having your work showcased on international television or designing something spectacular like a Rose Parade float? Do you love to sketch, tell stories or draw?
The design contest for the 2023 Cal Poly Universities’ Rose Float is now open, and your idea could be brought to life. The winning concept will cruise down Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena as part of the 134th Rose Parade on Monday, Jan. 2, 2023. (The parade has a “Never on Sunday” tradition when New Year’s Day falls on a Sunday.)
The contest is open to the public. The winner will receive $500 or two Rose Bowl tickets. The deadline is Friday, Feb. 4, at 5 p.m.
The 2023 parade theme is “Turning the Corner.” “Whether that corner is actual or figurative like the unlimited potential that each new year brings — we all enjoy the opportunity of a fresh start,” said Amy Wainscott, the 2023 president of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association.
“Turning a corner means rising above — alone, or with family, friends and community. This year, as we turn the corner together, we share in the hope, beauty and joy of what 2023 will bring.”
Entries may be in color or black and white, with a maximum size of 11 inches by 17 inches, and should illustrate or describe an idea rather than depict a finished design. Animation ideas are welcome. There is no limit on the number of entries an individual can submit.
Digital copies should be emailed to CalPolyRoseFloat1949@gmail.com, with the subject line “2023 Concept.” Submissions must include the contestant’s name, phone number and email address.
Students on the Rose Float leadership team from both Cal Poly Pomona and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo will review the submissions and vote on the winning concept, which will provide the basis for the 2023 final design.
The Cal Poly Universities’ Rose Float is the only student-built float in the Rose Parade. The team is known for colorful characters and animation. Stargrazers, the team’s 2022 float, won the parade’s Animation Award.
For details, email Cary Khatab at kkhatab@cpp.edu or call 909-869-3204.
Follow the Rose Float Facebook, Rose Float Instagram and Rose Float Twitter for news and contest updates.