Wicked’s “Defying Gravity” Float Takes Center Stage at the 136th Rose Parade

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is joining forces with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses® to celebrate the beloved musical phenomenon WICKED, which makes its in-home release on Digital December 31. A dazzling new float titled “Defying Gravity” will roll down the parade route at the 136th Rose Parade® on January 1, 2025, featuring larger-than-life depictions of Elphaba and Glinda positioned around the shimmering Emerald City.

About the Wicked Float

• Builder: Phoenix Decorating Company
• Dimensions: 24 ft high x 18 ft wide x 55 ft long
• Floral Count: Approx. 76,748 flowers
• Design Highlights:
  • Elphaba (hat, cape, dress) meticulously crafted from black seaweed, onion seed, and parsley.
  • Glinda (crown, wand, dress) adorned with strawflower, carnations, and everlasting petals.
  • Emerald City constructed with button mums, split peas, coffee accents, and more.
  • Yellow Brick Road coated with fine-cut yellow strawflower.
  • Tulip Fields and Sculpted Tulips made up of strawflower in vibrant colors and walnut shell paths.

Have you seen Wicked yet?
Helmed by acclaimed director Jon M. Chu, WICKED explores the untold story of Oz’s witches, starring Cynthia Erivo (as Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (as Glinda). Encounter the start of an unlikely friendship between two young women at Shiz University and the winding journey that transforms them into the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.

When & Where to Watch the Rose Parade

• Date/Time: Wednesday, January 1, 2025, from 8 AM to 10 AM PT
• Location: Pasadena, California
• How to Watch: Live on NBC and streaming on YouTube at 8 AM PT / 11 AM ET

Join the celebration of WICKED’s in-home release, marvel at the float’s extraordinary floral artistry, and get ready to defy gravity with Elphaba and Glinda. Don’t miss this vibrant tribute to friendship, self-discovery, and the fantastical world of Oz.