UPS Store to Feature Underwater-Themed Float in 2026 Rose Parade

The UPS Store will participate in the 137th Rose Parade on Jan. 1, 2026, with an underwater-themed float called “Sharing Skills for Success.”

The float features a 32-foot-tall seahorse coaching smaller seahorses in a synchronized swimming routine. The design includes a coral reef setting with fish, starfish and seashells.

The float connects to The UPS Store’s partnership with Junior Achievement USA through the Start Small, Grow Big program, which teaches business skills to school-aged children across the nation.

Local Los Angeles Junior Achievement students will ride the float during the parade.

Since 2022, the program has raised more than $6.7 million through customer donations at UPS Store locations.

“We’re making waves once again at the Rose Parade with our eighth float – a colorful celebration of community and the strength that comes from working together,” said Sarah Casalan, president of The UPS Store, Inc.

The float matches the 2026 parade theme of “The Magic in Teamwork.” Artist Charles Meier designed the float and Artistic Entertainment Services built it.

“Collaborating with The UPS Store to craft this mesmerizing underwater journey has been exhilarating,” said Craig Bugajski, CEO and president of AES.

Junior Achievement students nationwide can enter a contest to win a trip to Los Angeles for New Year’s. Two students aged 12 to 18 will win an all-expenses-paid trip to Pasadena. Winners will receive VIP access to the Rose Parade and tickets to the Rose Bowl game.

The contest runs through Nov. 1, 2025. Winners will be announced by Nov. 15.

For more information and to enter the contest, visit JA.org/Parade.

The UPS Store operates more than 5,400 locations across North America. Most locations are independently owned franchises.