The Rose Parade is a family tradition that I cherish and this year, the parade will be even better when the Disneyland Resort’s float makes its television debut while traveling down Colorado Blvd. in beautiful Pasadena, California. Today I had the honor and privilege to get a sneak peak at the float and all of its grandeur. 
The float, dubbed “Destination: Cars Land,” showcases the landmarks of Cars Land in a colorful re-creation of the roadside town of Radiator Springs. Shaped like the state of California, the 125-foot long float features flowing water, smoke-puffing baby tractors and 45 animated parts, including replicas of Lightning McQueen and Sally as they relive their fun-spirited road race from the first “Cars” movie. Mater, the tow truck, follows along behind the float.
Here’s a first look at what you don’t want to miss on New Year’s Day! 
At the front of the float, is a postcard-style “Welcome to Cars Land” sign, flanked by a trio of “baby tractors” emitting puffs of smoke while their eyes move in a playful manner.
Further “up the road” are likenesses of Lightning McQueen and Sally, moving forward and backward as if jockeying for race position. Lightning McQueens red “paint” is actually crushed cranberry seeds!
Guests aboard the float will ride vehicles from two Cars Land attractions: a tractor from Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree and a bouncing tire from Luigi’s Flying Tires. The Luigi’s Flying Tire will feature two very special surprise guests!
The main buildings of Radiator Springs are marked by spinning signs for the town’s landmarks, including the Cozy Cone Motel and Flo’s V-8 Café.
The iconic Radiator Springs mountain range, a Cars Land landmark, is re-created on the float, with characters Luigi and Guido perched on the rocks.
The mountain range is home to a miniature version of the popular Radiator Springs Racers attraction, complete with small-scale race cars zooming across the landscape.
High above everything, Barney Stormin’ the airplane tows a banner that reads: “The Happiest Place on Earth Just Got Happier.” (You can see the plane toward the upper right side of the picture above.)
Stop back by tomorrow for even more on this year’s exciting Disney entry in the 124th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade! I’ll have fun fact and a special tour of the float!
