All photos copyright 2016 Ramona Monteros

National Park Service: The theme of the 2016 Rose Parade was “Find Your Adventure,” a collaboration with the National Park Service. Marshal: Justin Fey.

National Park Service: Various current NPS uniforms (dress, service, search and rescue, volunteer) were worn by mounted rangers and US Park Police. Period Buffalo Soldier uniforms can be glimpsed in the rear.

National Park Service: The Yosemite stagecoach dates to the 1800s. The living history costumes recall the past of the National Parks.

National Park Service: The use of stock to explore and preserve the parks goes back before the NPS was established. Pack animals are still used in some areas.

The New Buffalo Soldiers: African American cavalry units were formed in 1867 to fight in the Indian Wars. Buffalo Soldiers were among the first NPS rangers. Marshal: August Simien, Jr.

The New Buffalo Soldiers: Uniforms are authentic parade dress of the 10th Regiment, Company H from the late 19th century, down to the Kersey wool material.

The New Buffalo Soldiers: In the post-Civil War era, one out of four cowboys was black, and four African American cavalry regiments were formed.

Scripps Miramar Saddlebreds: All the horses in this unit are American Saddlebreds. Marshal: Michele Macfarlane.

Scripps Miramar Saddlebreds: Every Rose Parade, Scripps Miramar comes up with new costumes to match the theme. This year, they scoured the country for vintage Western clothing.

Scripps Miramar Saddlebreds: TV star Carson Kressley has been riding since he was a child, and has ridden many world champion horses.