Professor Judges Rose Parade Floats
By Jill Dolan
January 14, 2026 - 03:59 PM
On New Year鈥檚 Day, millions tune in to the Tournament of Roses Parade, marveling at
the artistry and craftsmanship of the award-winning floats. This year, however, one
Mountie experienced the parade from a perspective few ever will.
Horticulture professor Dr. Chaz Perea, who also serves as Landscape Manager at Dodger
Stadium, was selected as a 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade float judge. Joining two
fellow judges, Dr. Perea evaluated entries on artistry, technical mastery, and their
interpretation of the parade鈥檚 theme, 鈥淭he Magic in Teamwork.鈥�
Perea was nominated multiple times by individuals he met through tours of the Dodger
Stadium botanic garden he designed and built. In September 2025, he received the news
that he had been selected. While the orientation sessions and judging schedule were
rigorous, he described the experience as unforgettable. 鈥淚 was able to observe the floats up close and truly appreciate the artistry behind
them,鈥� Perea said. 鈥淚 was just blown away. It was a phenomenal experience to be a
part of.鈥�
In selecting Perea, the Tournament of Roses cited his 鈥渆ye for natural form and materials,
paired with deep knowledge of plants,鈥� noting that he is 鈥渒nown for connecting design,
sustainability, and public engagement.鈥�
Tournament of Roses President Mark Leavens said the 2026 judging panel brought exceptional
insight and vision to the process. 鈥淓ach of them has made a remarkable impact in their
field, and now they bring that perspective to the Rose Parade,鈥� Leavens said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e
honored to welcome such inspiring leaders whose insights help celebrate the passion,
precision, and purpose behind every float.鈥�
Each year, the judging panel awards 24 honors recognizing excellence in categories
such as Float Design, Floral Presentation, and Entertainment Value. The highest honor,
the coveted Sweepstakes Trophy, is presented to the most beautiful float, exemplifying
outstanding design, floral artistry, and overall presentation. This year鈥檚 winner
was the entry from Cal Poly Universities titled, "Jungle Jumpstart.鈥�
As for Perea, he has returned to coaching the College鈥檚 Turf Team and remains optimistic
that his involvement with the Tournament of Roses is not over. 鈥淚 did get a soft invite
to come back for orientation, so we鈥檒l see.鈥�