Honda rang in the New Year and its 60th anniversary celebration with the lead float in the 130th Rose Parade, presented by Honda, on Jan. 1 in Pasadena, Calif.

“Celebration of Dreams,” paid tribute to Honda’s heritage in the U.S. and its dreams for the future. The 25-foot tall float was shaped like a giant birthday cake to mark the occasion, complete with special “candles”— 60 members of Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching bands. The band members’ schools recently participated in the Honda Battle of the Bands, an annual showcase created by Honda as part of the company’s commitment to the HBCU community and music education.

The float also featured a re-creation of the company’s first Los Angeles storefront along with the 2019 Honda Insight serving as the pace car, and the 2019 Acura RDX as the sound car.