On a rainy Sunday, December 11, Claremont McKenna College unveiled the design for its 2023 Rose Parade float at Fiesta Parade Floats in Irwindale. At this point the float is a shell of its future self, lacking the thousands of flowers that will be attached in the days leading up to the January 2 Rose Parade. The design, with the theme ‘launching responsible leaders,’ was visible in a detailed rendering.

The event included food trucks, bounce castles, and special guests. It was no secret many fans came to meet the seven young women who make up the Tournament of Roses 2023 Royal Court, who appeared for photos and questions. This year’s court includes Queen Bella Ballard,  princesses Michelle Cortez-Peralta, Sahanna Rajinikanthan, Salia Baligh, Adrian Crick, Zoë Denoncourt, and Uma Wittenberg. All of whom are pictured here with Clare Hubbard, 7.

Building the float is a first for CMC, which will honor the school’s 75^th anniversary. The theme focuses on the college’s mission to graduate students who will live thoughtful, productive lives and develop responsible leadership.

The float is funded entirely through special donations, and 100% of gifts received as part of the Adopt-a-Rose program will support student scholarships.

Artist rendering of the completed CMC Rose Parade float with the theme ‘launching responsible leaders.’

Food trucks fed hungry supporters inside the large warehouse at Fiesta Parade Floats in Irwindale.

Elvira Rascon helps her daughters Luna, left, and Emma Soltero create art during the December 11 festivities at the unveiling of CMC’s Rose Parade float in Irwindale.

The frame of CMC’s Rose Parade float sits behind the stage before the event began. A small 3D rendering sits in front, lower right.