Rose Parade: Season 2018, Episode 1

2018 - 1: The 129th Rose Parade

The fun kicks off with an exciting opening celebration by Honda featuring "Power of Dreams Express," the colorful lead float entry bringing together volunteers and philanthropic organizations working to make a difference in the lives of children. Other parade highlights include a majestic floral monument of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the AIDS Healthcare Foundation float saluting the iconic civil rights crusader, a lively entry from the Los Angeles Forum celebrating the music and entertainment venue's 50-year anniversary, Lucy Pet Foundation's "Paws for Life" entry honoring heroic service animals from around the country, the UPS Store's whimsical sea monster float titled "Books Bring Dreams to Life" and Dole's "Sharing Nature's Bounty" entry featuring dazzling floral animals and a cascading waterfall.

Adding to the fun will be 18 equestrian teams, including the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales as well as miniature horses, as well as 22 incredible marching bands from the U.S. and as far away as Australia and Japan. This year's Rose Queen and her court will also appear.

The Pasadena Police Department estimates that more than 700,000 spectators will line the five-and-a-half mile parade route. Tens of millions of people worldwide watch the telecast every year.