Pasadena in Full Bloom: Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Preparations Hit Fever Pitch

With Christmas behind it, Pasadena is shifting into high gear with preparations for two of its most iconic events: the 136th Rose Parade and the 111th Rose Bowl Game. Streets will bustle as grandstands, chain link fences and plywood plate glass protection boards are raised, float barns hum with activity, and volunteers, Tournament of Roses members, and City officials move with synchronized urgency. 

With just days to go, Pasadena is fully immersed in a time-honored tradition that captures global attention each New Year’s Day. 

A City in Motion: The Countdown Begins 

Today marks a critical transition as float decorators, marching bands, equestrian teams, and logistics crews begin their final stretches of preparation. At float decorating sites like the Rosemont Pavilion, volunteers meticulously place roses, orchids, chrysanthemums and dozens of other types of flowers and grasses and seeds on towering floats. The air is fragrant and the pressure is palpable as the grand designs come to life.

Meanwhile, marching bands from across the country will arrive in Pasadena, instruments polished and uniforms pressed. Rehearsals continue at locations such as Robinson Stadium at Pasadena City College, where Bandfest performances showcase musical precision to enthusiastic crowds starting Dec. 28. 

Saturday and Sunday December 28–29: Bandfest, Equestfest, and Float Viewing 

At Decorating Places, located at Rosemont Pavilion, ticket holders can witness firsthand the extraordinary effort and detail poured into float construction. Volunteers will be gluing, tucking, and arranging flowers with near-surgical precision. The public is encouraged to attend, with gates opening at 9 a.m. on Dec. 28 and continuing through Dec. 30. 

The first marquee events kick off on Sunday, Dec. 29. At Bandfest, visitors can catch participating marching bands displaying their musical prowess in formal performances. Gates open at Robinson Stadium at 1 p.m., with performances starting at 2 p.m. 

On Sunday, Dec. 29 Equestfest at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank invites fans to experience the majesty of the equestrian units featured in the Rose Parade. Riders, trainers, and their steeds perform intricate drills and dazzling routines in a family-friendly atmosphere. 

Monday, December 30: The Final Preparations 

As Pasadena enters the final stretch, Monday, Dec. 30, marks an intense day of rehearsals and final touches. Float decorating continues into the evening, with organizers aiming to ensure every petal and design element is parade-ready. 

At Robinson Stadium, Bandfest holds two final performances, one at 10 a.m. and another at 2 p.m. These performances highlight the vibrancy and precision of some of the best high school and college marching bands in the nation. 

Meanwhile, city workers and volunteers inspect bleachers, test audio systems, and finalize street closures. Police and security teams coordinate plans for crowd control, ensuring a safe and festive experience for hundreds of thousands of attendees. 

Tuesday, December 31: New Year’s Eve Festivities 

On New Year’s Eve, Pasadena balances tradition, safety and celebration. The Rose Bowl Bash takes over Lot K at Rose Bowl Stadium from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering music, games, and family-friendly entertainment. 

As midnight approaches, the Lululemon Run With the Roses 5K brings a unique twist to Pasadena’s New Year’s festivities. Starting just before midnight at the Lululemon Pasadena store in Old Pasadena, runners will jog along portions of the parade route, cheered on by excited onlookers. 

Wednesday, January 1: The Moments Arrive – the Parade and Game 

The morning of Jan. 1 begins with the 2025 Rose Parade Float Awards, announced at 6:15 a.m. on the front steps of the Tournament House.

At 8 a.m., the 136th Rose Parade presented by Honda steps off along Colorado Boulevard, a sea of color, creativity, and celebration. This year’s theme, “The Best Day Ever!” promises a spectacular showcase of floral artistry, marching bands, and equestrian units. 

As the parade concludes, attention shifts to the 111th Rose Bowl Game, set to kick off at 2 p.m. This year, the legendary stadium will host a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal, with fans from across the nation filling the stands to cheer on their teams. 

January 2–3: Floatfest Keeps the Magic Alive 

The excitement doesn’t end with the parade or the game. On Jan. 2 and Jan. 3, visitors can attend Floatfest: A Rose Parade Showcase at Sierra Madre Boulevard and Washington Boulevard. Attendees can view the intricately decorated floats up close and admire the skill and artistry behind their creation. 

On Jan. 2, Floatfest runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with early hours from 7 to 9 a.m. reserved for senior citizens and visitors with disabilities. On Jan. 3, Floatfest concludes with viewing hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

For event details, ticketing, and more information, visit tournamentofroses.com.