Rose Parade: Ways to get involved and float viewing tips

Every New Year’s Day, millions of people gather in Pasadena, and millions more tune in worldwide to watch the Rose Parade. This annual event has become a dazzling spectacle of creativity and craftsmanship, with floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units making their way down Colorado Boulevard in a celebration of beauty, community, and the promise of a new year.

A Brief History of the Rose Parade

The parade, officially known as the Tournament of Roses Parade, began in 1890. It was created by the Valley Hunt Club, a group of Pasadena residents, to showcase the city’s mild winter weather and lush natural beauty. Members decorated horse-drawn carriages with flowers to celebrate the region’s abundance and attract visitors to California.

Over time, the parade grew in popularity and evolved into the grand spectacle it is today, with elaborate floats constructed entirely from flowers, seeds, leaves, and other natural materials. The event has become an iconic American tradition, kicking off the new year with color, creativity, and pageantry.

The Tradition of Floral Floats

One of the most distinctive features of the Rose Parade is its floral floats. Every float must be covered entirely in natural materials, primarily flowers. This tradition has led to some of the most intricate and awe-inspiring designs, from giant animated figures to whimsical scenes of nature, culture, and fantasy.

The process of building these floats is a year-round endeavor, with professional float designers and volunteers working together to bring each design to life. Thousands of flowers, often including roses, marigolds, orchids, and chrysanthemums, are carefully placed by hand to create vibrant, three-dimensional works of art.

How You Can Help Decorate the Floats

If you’ve ever dreamed of being part of the magic, the general public is invited to volunteer to help decorate a float in certain cities and organizations. Many organizations welcome volunteers in the weeks leading up to the parade, particularly during "Deco Week" – the last week of December. Tasks include applying flowers, seeds, and other natural materials to the float structures. Check with float builders like Phoenix Decorating Company, Fiesta Parade Floats, AES, the city of Pasadena, or the city of Downey for volunteer opportunities.

The Rose Queen and Royal Court

Another highlight of the Rose Parade is the selection of the Rose Queen and her Royal Court. Each year, young women from the Pasadena area compete for the honor of representing the Tournament of Roses. The Rose Queen and her six princesses serve as ambassadors for the event, participating in various community and media appearances leading up to the parade.

Watching the Rose Parade

There are several ways to enjoy the Rose Parade, whether you prefer the excitement of being there in person or the comfort of watching from home.

Attending the Rose Parade in person is a bucket-list experience for many. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Tickets: Reserved grandstand seats are available for purchase through the Tournament of Roses website or authorized ticket vendors. These seats offer a prime viewing experience and are located along Colorado Boulevard.
• Camping Out: If you prefer a free, front-row view, you can camp out along the parade route. Many spectators arrive the night before to secure their spot. Bring chairs, blankets, and warm clothing, as overnight temperatures can be chilly.
• Best Spots: Some of the best viewing locations are near the TV Corner at Orange Grove Boulevard and Colorado Boulevard, where the floats make their grand turn and are often featured on television broadcasts.

For those who prefer to watch from home, the Rose Parade is broadcast live on major networks like ABC, NBC, and HGTV. Coverage typically begins at 8 a.m., with expert commentary and close-up views of the floats and performers.

Float Viewing After the Parade

After the parade, the floats are parked for public viewing at Victory Park in Pasadena. This event, known as "Floatfest", allows visitors to walk around the floats and marvel at their intricate details up close.

• Location: Victory Park, 2575 Paloma St., Pasadena
• Dates: The floats are typically on display for two days following the parade (Jan. 1 and 2).
• Hours: Viewing hours are usually from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Jan. 1 and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Jan. 2.
• Tickets: Admission to Floatfest is typically around $20 for adults, with discounts for seniors and children. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through the Tournament of Roses website.

A Celebration of Community and Creativity

The Rose Parade is more than just a parade—it’s a celebration of community, artistry, and the human spirit. Whether you’re decorating a float, waving to the Rose Queen, or simply watching from your living room, the parade offers a joyful start to the new year and a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us.

So, as the calendar turns to Jan. 1, grab your spot on the parade route or your seat in front of the TV, and get ready to welcome the new year with the vibrant sights and sounds of the Rose Parade.