Fontana Float Budget Tops Half Million Dollars
The city council will review a spending cap of $500,000 on November 10 for the municipality's first-ever entry in the 138th Rose Parade.
By Javier Sanders ·
Fontana city officials are seeking approval to spend up to $500,000 on its first entry in the 138th Rose Parade. A staff report included in the City Council agenda for the November 10 meeting outlines the projected cost. The funds are designated for float design, construction, transportation, and decorating.
Mayor Acquanetta Warren announced the participation on Wednesday. She identified the float’s theme as “Welcome,” stating that the concept reflects the city's mission. “We could not be more proud to celebrate and showcase Fontana to millions of people around the world,” Warren said.
The Rose Parade rules require floats to be covered exclusively in natural materials. Organizers prohibit non-natural substances on the exterior. Typical decorations include floral arrangements, leaves, seeds, and bark. Fontana posted an image illustrating the “Welcome” theme on social media, though a city spokesperson did not release a specific cost breakdown or a detailed design image by Friday afternoon.
The parade will take place on New Year’s Day at 8 a.m. The route spans 5.5 miles along Orange Grove Boulevard and Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena. Tickets for the event range from $82 to $133 based on seating location. Organizers advise spectators to arrive by 6:30 a.m. to secure their spots.
Spectators who miss the live parade can view Fontana’s float at Floatfest. This showcase takes place on Sierra Madre and Washington Boulevards in Pasadena. The event runs for three days, beginning on January 1 and continuing through January 3. Admission costs $26.50 per person, with free entry for children five years old and under.
The Southern California News Group’s Pasadena Star-News will provide live coverage and updates for the event. The outlet plans to stream the parade on its website and share content via its Instagram and TikTok accounts under the handle @the.socal.local. Additional information and ticket purchasing options are available through the official tournament of roses website.
The city’s participation marks a new tradition for Fontana. The council will vote on the budget item at its scheduled meeting on November 10. The float will join other decorated platforms in the procession, adhering to the strict material standards set by parade organizers.
