The Rose Parade, also known as the Tournament of Roses Parade, is an iconic New Year’s Day tradition in Pasadena, California. Held annually on January 1st (or January 2nd if the 1st falls on a Sunday), this spectacular floral festival features elaborate flower-covered floats, marching bands, and equestrian units. If you’re planning to attend, here’s everything you need to know.

Parade Route and Time

The Rose Parade route stretches for 5.5 miles along the streets of Pasadena. It begins at the intersection of Green Street and Orange Grove Boulevard, then travels north on Orange Grove.

The parade then turns east onto Colorado Boulevard, where the majority of the parade viewing takes place. Near the end of the route, the parade turns north onto Sierra Madre Boulevard before concluding at Villa Street.

The parade begins promptly at 8:00 AM Pacific Standard Time on January 1st (or January 2nd if the 1st falls on a Sunday). The entire procession lasts approximately 2 hours from start to finish.

To get a good viewing spot along the route, it’s recommended to arrive early in the morning or even camp out overnight. Many spectators start claiming curbside spots on the afternoon of December 31st.

Grandstand Seating and Curbside Viewing

There are two main options for viewing the Rose Parade in person: grandstand seating or curbside viewing. For guaranteed seating, spectators can purchase tickets for the grandstands through Sharp Seating Company, the official grandstand seating provider for the Rose Parade.

Ticket prices typically range from $75 to $120 per seat, depending on the location. 

Grandstand seats provide a comfortable, elevated view of the parade and are a good option for those who don’t want to camp out overnight.

The other option is to claim a spot along the curb on a first-come, first-served basis. Curbside viewing is free, but spectators often start claiming spots as early as noon the day before the parade.

Many bring camping chairs, sleeping bags, and coolers with snacks and drinks to make the wait more comfortable. Viewing the parade from the curb allows you to be closer to the action and soak in the lively atmosphere.

What to See

Pasadena Rose Parade

The Rose Parade features a spectacular showcase of floral floats, marching bands, equestrian units, special guests, and more. The elaborately decorated floats are the centerpiece of the parade.

They are covered in thousands of flowers, leaves, seeds and other natural materials to create stunning, colorful displays. Float decorators spend months planning and building these floral masterpieces.

In between the floats, spectators will be entertained by talented marching bands from across the United States and even other countries.

These bands are selected from hundreds of applicants to perform in the prestigious parade. Equestrian units also showcase a variety of horse breeds and riding styles with their skilled riders in colorful costumes.

Other key things to watch for are the Rose Queen and Royal Court waving from a special float, and the year’s Grand Marshal – often a celebrity or public figure who presides over the festivities. Of course, the parade is capped off by an appearance from Santa Claus himself to ring in the new year.

Where to Stay

If you’re traveling to Pasadena for the Rose Parade, it’s important to book your accommodations well in advance. Hotels in the Pasadena area fill up quickly, especially those close to the parade route. Some of the top hotel options include:

  1. The Langham Huntington, Pasadena – A luxury resort with elegant rooms and suites, a spa, and fine dining
  2. Hilton Pasadena – Offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location just a few blocks from the parade route
  3. The Westin Pasadena – Features modern rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center within walking distance of the parade

However, staying right in Pasadena can be expensive, especially during the busy Rose Parade season. To save money, consider booking a hotel in one of the nearby cities like Arcadia, Monrovia, Eagle Rock or Highland Park. From there, you can easily take the Metro L Line (formerly Gold Line) light rail to reach the parade route.

Alternatively, if you’re driving an RV or camper van, there are several RV parks and campgrounds in the surrounding area that offer a budget-friendly place to stay. Just be sure to reserve your spot as early as possible.

No matter where you stay, it’s best to arrive at least a day before the parade to get settled and scope out your viewing spot. With a little planning and preparation, you’ll be all set to enjoy the spectacular sights and sounds of the Rose Parade.

Getting There

Parking is extremely limited near the parade route. Take the Metro L Line to the Memorial Park or Del Mar stations in Pasadena. Rideshares and taxis will have restricted access on parade day. For a hassle-free experience, book a private car service in advance.

Other Tournament of Roses Events

Decorating Places (Dec 28): See volunteers preparing the floats

Equestfest (Dec 29): Meet the parade’s equestrian units

Bandfest (Dec 29-30): Watch field performances by the marching bands

Rose Bowl Game (Jan 1): The parade is followed by this legendary college football game

Make It a Luxury Experience with Eternity Limo LA

Avoid the stress of traffic and parking by booking a private car from Eternity Limo LA. Our professional Pasadena limo service will pick you up from your hotel, provide a smooth ride to the parade, and be waiting to whisk you away afterwards.

Enjoy the pageantry of the Rose Parade from the comfort of a luxury sedan or SUV, or arrange a limo to fit your whole group. We’ll handle the driving so you can focus on making memories at this iconic Pasadena event. Contact Eternity Limo LA today to reserve your Rose Parade transportation!