Temple City is preparing for the 82nd annual Camellia Festival, with organizers outlining early plans for the 2026 celebration and opening participation opportunities for local groups. The long running community event will again feature its traditional parade, carnival, and youth centered activities, continuing a legacy that has connected generations of San Gabriel Valley residents for more than eight decades.
Festival weekend is scheduled for February 20 through February 22, 2026, with the parade planned for Saturday morning along Las Tunas Drive. The parade remains the signature event of the Camellia Festival and draws participants and spectators from across the region.
Parade Participation and Theme
Organizers are accepting applications for standard and mini parade floats, inviting participation from groups that support youth and community involvement. Eligible organizations include schools, sports teams, service clubs, churches, and nonprofit groups. The 2026 festival theme, Camelliapalooza, encourages creative designs that incorporate camellia imagery while celebrating music, color, and community spirit.
Float entries are required to meet established construction and safety standards. Judging traditionally focuses on theme interpretation, craftsmanship, and effective use of camellias. Standard float participants may be eligible for stipends and awards, while mini floats are recognized with trophies for top placements.
Support for Float Builders
To assist participating groups, festival organizers plan to host float building workshops in January at Temple City facilities. These workshops are intended to provide guidance on design requirements, safety expectations, and parade logistics. They also offer an opportunity for first time participants to ask questions and prepare well in advance of parade day.
Youth participation remains central to the parade, with each entry expected to include young people as part of its presentation. Organizers continue to emphasize youth involvement as a defining element of the Camellia Festival.
Carnival and Community Events
In addition to the parade, the Camellia Festival will host a three day carnival featuring rides, games, food vendors, and live entertainment. The carnival has long served as a gathering place for families and residents, adding to the festival’s role as one of Temple City’s most recognizable civic traditions.
The Camellia Festival was founded in 1944 as a way to highlight youth programs, volunteerism, and community pride. Over time, it has grown into a regional event that reflects Temple City’s identity while bringing together schools, civic organizations, and volunteers.
Organizers view the annual festival as both a celebration and a community building effort. Planning for the 2026 event reflects continued collaboration among volunteers, civic leaders, and participating groups committed to maintaining the festival’s traditions.
Applications, deadlines, and detailed participation guidelines are available through the official Camellia Festival website at https://www.camelliafestival.org. Organizers encourage interested groups to begin planning early to meet requirements and fully participate.
With preparations underway, the 2026 Camellia Festival is expected to continue its role as a unifying event that strengthens local connections, promotes youth engagement, and reinforces Temple City’s long standing community traditions.
