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Gladiator II and Wicked posters

Source: Courtesy / Universal Pictures

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has joined forces with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses to celebrate the digital release of Wicked with a spectacular float in the 136th Rose Parade for the New Year. Read more details about how their bringing Elphaba and Glinda to life and where fans can watch from home.

On January 1, 2025, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment and Pasadena Tournament of Roses celebrate Wicked’s digital release with a float titled “Defying Gravity” in the 136th Rose Parade. The vibrant float embodies the spirit of the beloved story with larger-than-life depictions of Elphaba and Glinda, set against the iconic Emerald City.

Designed by the talented team at Phoenix Decorating Company, the float is a breathtaking homage to the themes of friendship and self-discovery central to Wicked. It features motion-activated elements, including a dynamic Elphaba, sparkling bubbles surrounding Glinda, and a radiant Emerald City that shimmers with every detail.

The intricate floral artistry includes:

  • Elphaba’s Design: A hat and cape crafted from black seaweed and onion seed, a dress adorned with fine lettuce seed, and a broom constructed from coffee grounds and sisal rope.
  • Glinda’s Ensemble: A gown of pink carnations with a crown and wand accented by white everlasting flowers.
  • Emerald City and Yellow Brick Road: Vibrant materials such as button mums, mung beans, parsley flakes, and yellow strawflowers bring the city and its iconic pathway to life.
  • Tulip Fields and Cherry Blossom Trees: A kaleidoscope of tulips and delicate cherry blossoms complete the lush, fantastical scene.

Directed by Jon M. Chu, the Wicked film stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, exploring their transformative journey from Shiz University to their destinies as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.

Tune in to experience this magical float live during the Rose Parade on NBC and YouTube at 8 am PT / 11 am ET on New Year’s Day.

For more updates on Wicked, visit wickedmovie.com. Follow #WickedMovie and #WickedRoseParade to join the celebration.