2016 Rose Parade reveals grand marshal, very first Lakers float

PASADENA, Calif. (KABC) -- The Tournament of Roses announced who will be the grand marshal for the upcoming Rose Parade, and revealed its very first Los Angeles Lakers float.

In addition to his 14 Emmy awards, two Grammys and two Oscar nominations, documentary filmmaker Ken Burns can also say he's the 2016 Tournament of Roses Grand Marshal.

"He has a passion, and his connection with both Pasadena and the Jackie Robinson story and the National Park Service makes him a natural choice to be our grand marshal," said Mike Matthiessen, president of the Tournament of Roses.

The 62-year-old filmmaker shared his excitement through a video at the tournament house ceremony in Pasadena.

Just down the street from the event, dozens of men were seen installing bleachers which are expected to hold 11,000 people around the parade route on the big day.

Meanwhile, business is blossoming at Paradiso Parade Floats, and they are most excited about the first ever Lakers float.

"The cool thing about this float is it got a very innovative animation mechanism," said Charles Meier, Paradiso creative director. "The basketball is going to spin and rotate around the hoop, sort of mimicking that toilet bowl effect."

The never-before-seen NBA float paired with the legendary filmmaker grand marshal are both expected to be a great kick start to the New Year.