I joined the ranks of some very fun, well known Portlander's for backstage peeks at float productions, some really yummy dinners, and, of course... deliberation. What I was amazed by most was the use of natural materials for the float production. Trust me - - seeing these beauties up close was sensational. Some of my favorites included naturally dyed flax seeds, poppy seeds, tinted coconut, pinto beans, orange slices, sushi rice, lentils, coconut husk, and coffee beans.
My favorite {and also the winner!} was "Connor's Quest" by Alaska Airlines. The giant parrot float included a coffee bean telescope, kermit pom chest, lentil beak, poppy seed hat, plucked anthurium wings and head, and galax flax and ti leaf wings. So gorgeous. Alaska Airlines partnered with Make A Wish Foundation to celebrate Connor and the completion of his wish to visit Disneyland to experience the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. Connor was joined on the float by his parents and a surprise flash mob made up of his brothers dressed as pirates. Tearjerker for sure.
{Advance apologies for some of the poor image quality below... I took them with my phone!}