As preparations accelerate for the 2025 Rose Parade, Pasadena's remaining major float builders have developed contrasting approaches to managing their essential volunteer workforce.
The exit of Fiesta Parade Floats marks a significant shift in Rose Parade float production, as Phoenix Decorating Company and Artistic Entertainment Services coordinate thousands of volunteers for up to 33 entries.
Phoenix Decorating Company (PDC), led by Chris and Lyn Lighthouse at Rose Float Plaza South in Irwindale, maintains a traditional full-shift structure requiring eight-hour blocks between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. or 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
"We ask that the volunteers commit to a full shift to have a great experience," said Chuck Hayes, who handles sponsor relations at PDC.
Artistic Entertainment Services (AES), operating from Rosemont Pavilion in Pasadena, has implemented a more flexible system, reducing the minimum time commitment to attract volunteers with varying schedules.
"We ask, they sign up for at least a minimum of four hours," said Kyle Amerine, Rose Parade Float Project Manager at AES. "We don't take volunteers who can't commit to four hours because by the time we get those volunteers in and get them trained and working, it wouldn't leave a lot of time for them to decorate."
Both companies began preparation at different times, with AES starting dry decoration on Nov. 9 and PDC following on Dec. 7, requiring pre-registration and 30-minute early arrival.
Safety protocols include consent and liability waivers at AES, where volunteers must bring scissors, while both companies maintain age restrictions of 13 years and above.
"We welcome all people who are 13 years and above to come be decorators and whatever their skillset is, we utilize them to decorate the float," Hayes said.
"For climbing on the scaffolding to be up on top of the floats and decorate them, they have to be 13 years or older," Amerine said. "If anybody doesn't feel comfortable climbing on scaffolding, we don't make them climb on scaffolding."
PDC is managing 17 floats through partnerships with Kiwanis International, pedal pushers, and Lions Clubs International, with volunteer registration at phoenixdeco.com/volunteer/guidelines.
AES oversees 16 entries, including previous Sweepstakes Award winner San Diego Zoo. Since their October registration launch, volunteers have been signing up through aescreative.com/volunteers.
Fresh flower decoration will commence the day after Christmas at both facilities, with AES scheduled for float judging on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 1:58 p.m.