A Cultural Tapestry: Vietnamese Heritage Takes Center Stage at the Rose Parade

As we edge closer to the beginning of a new year, anticipation fills the air, heralding the return of one of the most iconic celebrations of creativity and culture: the Rose Parade. This year, the streets of Pasadena, California, will be graced by a particularly poignant narrative as the Vietnamese community unveils its second-ever float, the “Journey of Dreams.”

In the vibrant world where fashion and culture intersect, stories are told through the interplay of color, texture, and form, and this float emerges as a living canvas. It is not merely a spectacle of floral artistry but a vibrant homage to Vietnamese heritage—a narrative spun from the dreams and resilience of a community that has long cherished its roots while reaching for the stars.

_{Trần Thị Bích Liên, the former wife of Major General Lê Minh Đảo. (ELETOM’s Editor-in-Chief’s Aunt (her father’s older sister). This photo was taken prior to the Vietnam War.}

_{Photo of our Editor-In Chief’s family and her father as a child in Vietnam (smallest child in front) who sits beside cousins and siblings. This photo was taken likely early late 50s, early 60s, showing a different life prior to their escape towards the end of the Vietnam War.}

As the Editor-in-Chief of ELETOM Magazine and a second-generation Vietnamese American, I am deeply inspired by my own family’s story—a tapestry of trials, triumphs, and an unwavering love for our culture. Our magazine has always been dedicated to spotlighting the diverse voices within our community, and supporting the Love 2 Yeu float aligns seamlessly with our mission to inspire and uplift.

The centerpiece of this year’s float is a beautifully crafted Vietnamese refugee boat named LUCKY, symbolizing the arduous journeys undertaken by countless families in search of freedom and opportunity. Accompanied by animated dolphins, representing the guiding support of loved ones and the welcoming embrace of their new homeland, the float narrates a story of hope and gratitude for the opportunities found in America.

_{These photos tell a story of resilience, family, and community—a journey from the past to the future. After the fall of Saigon and unimaginable loss, including her aunt and entire family, they, like so many Vietnamese refugees, rose from the ashes like a phoenix. Not just surviving, but thriving, rebuilding, and creating a new life in Northern Virginia, USA. The top two photos show our Editor-in-Chief as a little girl in 1986 with her cousin Diep Le, who played a pivotal role in their family’s journey from Vietnam, caring for and protecting her siblings along the way. Another image captures friends and family in the early years, highlighting the deep need to stay connected and preserve their culture, making a foreign place feel like home. The remaining photos reflect life in Vietnam before the war, featuring Natalie’s family and her beloved aunt Trần Thị Bích Liên in her younger years.}

The design incorporates native Vietnamese resources like white rice, cinnamon, star anise, and coffee beans, adding touches of authenticity that honor Vietnam’s agricultural heritage. A bird perched on the deck symbolizes the promise of a brighter future for generations to come. Adorned with thousands of vibrant flowers in red, yellow, and orange shades, the float offers a stunning display of Vietnamese cultural symbols.

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Cultural symbols of Tết, such as traditional fruits, apricot blossoms (hoa mai), square rice cakes (banh chung), and lanterns inspired by the Hoi An Lantern Festival, are prominently featured on the float. In honor of the Year of the Snake, a graceful snake coils around an apricot blossom branch, symbolizing intuition and resilience—qualities that have defined the Vietnamese immigrant experience and continue to guide future generations.

Tết, the most important celebration for Vietnamese people worldwide, is a time of reflection, renewal, giving thanks, family reunions, honoring ancestors, and hope for prosperity in the year ahead.

As the float makes its way down the parade route, the Vietnamese Creatives Collective has curated a performance lineup that brings to life the journey of the Vietnamese-American community. The performing arts trio 3âm will showcase martial arts and traditional Vietnamese dance, honoring resilient Vietnamese women with movements that reflect hardship, a longing for home, and a celebration of newfound freedom.

The Thuy Van Dance Company will further enrich the experience with their elegant traditional Vietnamese dancers, embodying the beauty and grace of Vietnamese culture. Adding to the lively celebration, the Thiên Ân Performing Arts lion dancers and drummers will captivate audiences with their vibrant, rhythmic performance. Vietnamese American singer Rachele Nguyen, known from NBC’s The Voice, will perform “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman, an inspiring anthem capturing the community’s journey and embrace of the American Dream.

The float riders will include successful Vietnamese Americans who have built new lives in the United States. The “Journey of Dreams” is not just a float—it is the story of countless families who dared to dream for future generations.

“We are deeply grateful to the United States for providing a land of freedom where we can pursue our dreams,” says Jo Fogel, co-founder of Love 2 Yeu. “This float is our way of expressing gratitude for the opportunities we have received and our commitment to give back to this beautiful country.”

As we approach this monumental occasion, let us remember that our strength lies in unity. This float is more than a festive ornament; it is a call to celebrate the beauty of our heritage and the power of community. Whether you identify as Vietnamese, part of the broader Asian community, or an ally who champions diversity, your support is invaluable.

_{Trần Thị Bích Liên, wearing donated clothes from Jewish and Catholic communities—a symbol of the kindness and generosity that helped countless Vietnamese refugees rebuild their lives after the war. In the aftermath of the Vietnam War, Jewish and Catholic organizations played a crucial role in resettling refugees, particularly in Northern Virginia. Synagogues, churches, and community groups worked tirelessly to provide essentials like housing, food, education, and employment opportunities. They not only offered material support but also extended a sense of belonging, welcoming Vietnamese families into their congregations and helping them navigate an unfamiliar new world.}

Share this journey with your friends and family, and let’s create a ripple of excitement and solidarity. Together, we can ensure that the “Journey of Dreams” floats from vision to vibrant reality.

To be part of this cultural milestone, visit Love 2 Yeu’s website to explore ways to contribute. Whether through donations or volunteer efforts, every gesture counts. As a proud Vietnamese American, I invite you to stand with us as we make history at the Rose Parade. Let’s step into the New Year carrying the spirit of love, unity, and pride, showcasing the beauty of our dreams and the strength of our community.

As we approach this extraordinary event, I urge you to join me with the team at Love 2 Yeu on this incredible journey. Let’s create magic together, one petal at a time.

To learn more:

Visit Love 2 Yeu’s Website (https://love2yeu.org/2025-rose-parade-float-journey-of-dreams/)

To donate:

Donate Here (https://givebutter.com/journeyofdreams)

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