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Bishop Briggs to Launch 2026 Rose Parade with Electrifying Honda Float Performance
Table of Contents – Bishop Briggs
Epic 2026 Rose Parade Opening: Bishop Briggs & 24 Dancers Stun
The 2026 Rose Parade is kicking off with a powerful dose of musical energy. Singer-songwriter Bishop Briggs has been announced as the Opening Spectacular performer, set to ignite the parade route on New Year’s Day from the spectacular Honda float.
The Tournament of Roses revealed on December 16 that Briggs will helm the coveted opening slot, following in the footsteps of past performers like Kiesza and Aloe Blacc. Her performance atop the float, themed “The Power in Teams,” will be amplified by 24 world-class dancers, creating a dynamic celebration of the parade’s 2026 theme, “The Magic in Teamwork.”
For those asking, “Who is Bishop Briggs?”—here’s your guide to the artist starting Pasadena’s biggest party.
From Sarah McLaughlin to Bishop Briggs
Born Sarah Grace McLaughlin in London, the 33-year-old artist crafted her unique stage name to avoid confusion with fellow singer Sarah McLachlan. She chose Bishop Briggs as a tribute to the Scottish town where her parents were raised.
Breakthrough Anthems and Chart Success
Briggs first turned heads when her 2015 track “Wild Horses” featured in an Acura Super Bowl commercial. However, her true meteoric rise came with the 2016 hit “River.” The song soared to number 3 on the Billboard US Alternative Chart and catapulted her onto the global stage, earning her a spot opening for Coldplay’s massive “A Head Full of Dreams” tour. Parade attendees can expect to hear this signature anthem alongside her empowering 2019 single “Champion.”
A Dedicated Following and Recent Projects
With a loyal fanbase and over 4 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Briggs continues to evolve. She recently released a 2025 Halloween-themed EP, “When It’s Halloween,” showcasing her creative range. Her raw vocal power and anthemic songwriting make her the perfect artist to set an unforgettable tone for the 2026 Rose Parade.
Her performance will inaugurate a magnificent procession. For the complete lineup, you can check out the guide to every float, band, and equestrian unit.
As the sun rises on January 1, 2026, all eyes will be on Bishop Briggs to deliver a stunning, memorable opening that celebrates the power of shared dreams and spectacular teamwork.