Enjoy Illinois, the official tourism website for the state of Illinois, will present a whimsical “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”-themed float for the Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s Day, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association announced Friday.
The float, titled “Play Hooky in Illinois,” will showcase Chicago landmarks including the Wrigley Field marquee, Flamingo sculpture, Willis Tower, and the “Save Ferris” water tower.
A red sports car and floral tribute to “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte,” an 1886 painting by Georges Seurat now in the Art Institute of Chicago, will complement the presentation, celebrating Illinois pride and pop culture.
Illinois native Brian Culbertson will perform “Danke Schoen” during the Rose Parade presented by Honda’s mid-parade spectacle, accompanied by dancers and Ferris Bueller impersonator Tyler Lankston.
The performance aims to highlight Illinois as a destination for creating memorable experiences, according to the Tournament of Roses, a volunteer organization hosting the event.
Viewers can watch the 136th Rose Parade, themed “Best Day Ever!” through Christmas Plus, Fubo, and Pluto TV. For additional broadcast options, visit tournamentofroses.com/broadcast-partners. Grandstand tickets are available at sharpseating.com.
The Tournament of Roses, supported by 935 members contributing over 80,000 volunteer hours, will culminate with the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the 111th Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential. Updates are available on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook.
