The Port of San Diego Big Bay Balloon Parade in California is associated with the Pacific Life Holiday Bowl football game. Kermit the Frog was the Grand Marshal for the 18th annual parade, held on December 29, 2008. News releases quoted Kermit saying, "Not only is this a great honor, but it also means that I get to ride in a car during the parade -- which is a whole lot easier than being filled up with hot air and pulled around on long ropes." Balloons of various Muppet, Sesame Street and Bear in the Big Blue House characters made by Fabulous Inflatables have appeared in the parade, including: