Rapid City, SD – Travel South Dakota is set to kick off America’s 250th anniversary celebration on Jan. 1, 2026, by showcasing the spirit and beauty of the Mount Rushmore State in the Rose Parade presented by Honda. The state’s entry will bring the landmarks and adventure of South Dakota to millions of viewers worldwide.
The float, named “Carved in Stone; A Legacy of Teamwork,” will feature Mount Rushmore National Memorial as its centerpiece. It is designed to be a spectacular display of South Dakota’s icons, cultural treasures, and its pioneering spirit. The float will incorporate nearly 40,000 floral and natural elements, including corn, wheat, sunflowers, and textured rust cornsilk used to create a bison’s coat, along with light blue iris petals.
The tableau will showcase the state’s famous faces rising above a landscape of adventure, featuring thundering bison and the Dignity: of Earth and Sky sculpture, which honors Native American women. Native grasses and florals will highlight the natural beauty of the state, including the Black Hills area.
South Dakota welcomes nearly 15 million visitors annually who explore its monuments, wide-open spaces, agritourism offerings, and cities like Rapid City. The float is intended to celebrate these experiences while introducing the world to the flavors, heritage, and sense of wonder that make the state a unique destination.
“As we kick off 2026 and our nation’s 250th birthday, our goal is to showcase the majesty of South Dakota to millions of viewers watching the parade around the world,” said James Hagen, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Tourism. “With our float, we’re highlighting the iconic landmarks that define South Dakota, and sharing some of our hidden treasures that make us an unforgettable destination.”
Travel South Dakota’s celebration will extend beyond the parade route during Decorator’s Week in Pasadena, where the team will offer immersive experiences to give visitors a taste of South Dakota, including local treats and interactive moments.
This marks Travel South Dakota’s second appearance in the Rose Parade, with the first being 10 years prior in 2016. Artistic Entertainment Services is designing and building the 2026 “Carved in Stone; A Legacy of Teamwork” float. The South Dakota Department of Tourism, led by Secretary James D. Hagen, is comprised of Travel South Dakota and the South Dakota Arts Council.