Designed and built entirely by students from Cal Poly Pomona and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Jungle Jumpstart brought the 2026 parade theme, The Magic in Teamwork, to life through a vibrant rainforest story where nature and technology come together. As the only student-designed and student-built float in the parade, the project required months of collaboration, problem-solving, and dedication from students working across two campuses more than 250 miles apart.

CFG contributed a wide variety of foliage and natural materials to help create the float’s lush jungle environment. Spanish moss, assorted ferns, palmetto, curly willow, and other layered greenery were used creatively throughout the design. These materials added texture, depth, and realism to the rainforest setting while showcasing the students’ imaginative approach to floral design.

In addition to donating product, CFG was honored to have team member Yvette volunteer on-site during the float build. Representing Continental Floral Greens, Yvette worked alongside Cal Poly students and experienced firsthand the care, talent, and teamwork that goes into building a Rose Parade float. Volunteering alongside her mother-in-law made the experience even more meaningful.

“Volunteering alongside the Cal Poly students and seeing their creativity and dedication up close was incredibly rewarding. Seeing our greenery used so creatively made me proud to represent CFG.”— Yvette, CFG Team Member

Seeing the float come together up close made its success even more special. Jungle Jumpstart went on to win the Sweepstakes Award, recognizing the most beautiful float in the parade and marking a historic first for the Cal Poly Rose Float program in its 77-year history. The award is a testament to the students’ hard work, creativity, and collaborative spirit.

We are grateful to the Cal Poly Rose Float team for the opportunity to continue this collaboration and to support such an inspiring project. Supporting student creativity, hands-on learning, and meaningful community experiences reflects what matters most to us at Continental Floral Greens.