Louisiana’s ‘Gulf to Gumbo’ Rose Parade float celebrates seafood culture

Date:2025-08-29 03:14:49 Category:US Views:1 Comment:0

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Louisiana’s culture will be represented again for the fifth year in a row in the Tournament of Roses Parade in California.

The float’s theme will be a nod to a well-known dish from Louisiana cuisine, “Gulf to Gumbo.” Decorations reflecting the theme will include a shrimp boat, seafood and “a larger-than-life chef,” the Louisiana Office of Tourism said. The float’s theme is part of the parade’s overall theme, “The Magic in Teamwork.”

“From the shrimpers to the chefs, a fresh pot of seafood gumbo is a team effort. The people of Louisiana are what make our state so special, and that goes beyond our delicious food. Hotel staff, tour guides and people you meet on the street create a one-of-a-kind welcoming experience for visitors to Louisiana,” Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser said.

What the float will look like:

For a fifth year, Louisiana will be represented in the Tournament of Roses® Parade with it’s float “Gulf to Gumbo.” The float design, featuring a shrimp boat, fresh Louisiana seafood, and a larger than life chef, recognizes all the individuals who contribute to Louisiana’s most famous dish. (Image credit: Louisiana Office of Tourism)

Nungesser said Louisiana’s float “steals the show” every year it has participated in the Rose Parade. “Our krewe brings so much celebration and fun to Pasadena with us that we stand out before the float even rolls. We are excited for another year of showing the world how you can Feed Your Soul in Louisiana.”

Addis native country singer John Foster was announced as the entertainment. Foster was runner-up in “American Idol” and has hit the road to perform in Louisiana and across the country since making his appearance on the singing competition television show.

See when, where country singer John Foster will perform in 2025

Awards Louisiana’s float has won:

2022: Wrigley Legacy Award for most outstanding display of floral presentation, float design and entertainment.
2023 and 2024: Showmanship Award for most outstanding display of showmanship and entertainment.
2025: Director’s Award for most outstanding artistic design and use of floral and non-floral materials.