Volunteers are working down to the wire to complete the floats for the 2025 Rose Parade, meticulously pressing millions of flowers into place to bring these colorful creations to life.
Among them, the “One Legacy” float serves as a tribute to the thousands of organ donors who give the gift of life.
“Being able to see all these families and the sacrifices they’ve done … It’s very important to me and my family,” said Veronica Salas, a living donor being honored for donating a kidney to her father, which gave their family two extra years together.
“The legacy that my father left behind and everything that he taught us. This is bringing me back to a place where memories are coming back,” Salas added.
Salas will walk alongside the float, which features images of donors who have passed.
“To walk alongside the float and to get to tell my story and encourage others to donate, it’s wonderful,” said Patricia Gardner, another living donor.
Other floats bring their own messages to the parade.
Pasadena Humane’s float features adopted pets and highlights the need for shelter animal support, while the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance showcases giant pandas and other wildlife to promote conservation.
The State of Mississippi’s float honors musical legends B.B. King and Elvis Presley, celebrating the blues and rock music. Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves flew to Los Angeles to support the state’s float, which pays tribute to the two iconic musicians.
