American Honda kicks off 2020 by being the lead float in the 131st Rose Parade. Honda’s “Our Hope for the Future” float celebrates the optimism created by the spirit, dreams and vitality of children. “Honda believes everyone, especially children, should follow their dreams,” says Steve Morikawa, VP of Corporate Relations & Social Responsibility at American Honda. “By nurturing children’s passions and encouraging them to achieve their dreams, there is hope for a bright future.”
Decorated with roughly 30,000 flowers, the 55-foot long float features six children pursuing their dreams through a variety of activities. Each child expresses a different passion: space exploration, environmental stewardship, medical science, the arts, and scientific research. Float riders will include the 2019 Honda Campus All-Star Challenge national champions from Spelman College and Rachel Garcia, the winner of the 2019 Honda Cup which is awarded by the Collegiate Women Sports Awards.
Honda has history with the Rose Parade: They started collaborating with the Tournament of Roses in 1961, providing two-wheeled vehicles for the 1962 Parade. Honda has also been a float participant since 1977, and has provided the official Tournament of Roses vehicles since 1994. Honda continues to supply two-wheeled vehicles and side-by-sides for Parade operations to this day.
As presenting sponsor, the Honda float is the first in the Rose Parade and showcases the theme. As a result, it will not be considered a commercial entry and will not compete during the judging process. Prior to becoming presenting sponsor in 2011, Honda floats won awards in 15 of the previous 16 years.
