January 1

Tournament of Roses Parade

Experience the magic and color of the Tournament of Roses Parade – where flowers come to life and march down the streets!

Yearly Date

January 1

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Kick off the new year with a floral fiesta at the Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1! This picturesque parade has been a New Year's Day tradition since 1890, making it one of the oldest and most beloved events in United States history. It all began as a promotional effort by Pasadena's distinguished Valley Hunt Club to showcase the charming SoCal climate that allows flowers to bloom in the middle of winter. Today, the Tournament of Roses Parade blooms larger than life, bursting with flower-covered floats, equestrian units, and marching bands from around the globe, transforming Pasadena into a vibrant canvas of color and community. Experience the magic and majesty, as flowers come to life and dance down the streets!

Tournament of Roses Parade Timeline

1890

Inception of Tournament of Roses

The Valley Hunt Club organized the first Tournament of Roses Parade to promote Pasadena's warm winter weather.

1902

First Rose Bowl Game

The first Rose Bowl Game, dubbed the "Grand Daddy of Them All," was held in conjunction with the parade, turning it into a larger event.

1947

First Televised Parade

The Tournament of Roses Parade was televised for the first time, expanding its reach to viewers across America.

1954

Introduction of the Grand Marshal Tradition

The Grand Marshal tradition started, each year a celebrity is selected to guide the parade and toss the coin at the Rose Bowl game.

1980

First Female Tournament President

Margaret Huntley Main became the first female president of the Tournament of Roses Association, setting a precedent for female leadership in the event.

2009

100th Rose Bowl Game

The Rose Bowl Game celebrated its 100th anniversary, reinforcing the rich tradition and history of the event.

How to Celebrate Tournament of Roses Parade

1 Host a Viewing Party

Invite friends and family over for a viewing party. Decorate your living room with flower arrangements inspired by the parade floats, serve themed snacks, and enjoy the parade from the comforts of your home.

2 Participate in a Float Decorating Volunteer Activity

Many organizations need volunteers to help construct and decorate their floral masterpieces. This creative hands-on participation enhances the excitement of parade day as you can have a personal stake in seeing "your" float move down Colorado Boulevard.

3 Visit a Rose Plantation

In keeping with the theme of roses, find a local or regional rose plantation or nursery, and take a tour to learn more about the cultivation and care of this integral Tournament of Roses flower. Some gardens may also offer flower arrangement classes.

4 Start a Rose Garden

In honor of the Rose Parade, use this as inspiration to start your own rose garden. Research the best type of roses for your climate and plot out where they will grow best in your yard. This can be a long-lasting way to celebrate the parade annually as your roses bloom each year reminding you of the parade.

5 Create a Floral Art Competition

Host a floral art competition within your community or among your friends. Challenge participants to create their own miniature float or a piece of floral artwork. Could be 2D or 3D and it's more about participation than perfection so encourage everyone to join in.

Why We Love Tournament of Roses Parade

It's a Grand Floral Fiesta

The Tournament of Roses Parade is renowned for its magnificent floral floats. Each float is elaborately decorated with thousands of flowers, often featuring ingenious designs and vibrant colors. The sight of these blossoming masterpieces marching down the streets is a delightful spectacle!

Experience Community Spirit and International Fellowship

The parade brings together people from all walks of life, both participants and spectators. It not only unites locals of Pasadena but also pilgrims from around the globe. School bands, equestrian units, and flower-decorating volunteers all contribute to making this event a truly international celebration.

It Celebrates the New Year in a Unique Way

While most New Year's Day celebrations involve fireworks and parties, the Tournament of Roses Parade provides a unique and refreshing way to welcome the new year. By celebrating with flowers, the parade invokes a sense of peace, bringing a gentle beginning to the new year.