Pasadena Tournament of Roses Celebrates Red Rose Day, Spreading Joy and Gratitude

On Wednesday, June 12, volunteer members of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association celebrated National Red Rose Day by handing out long-stemmed red roses to unsuspecting individuals in Los Angeles and Pasadena.

The red rose, an iconic symbol of the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game, represents not only love but also gratitude, which the “White Suiter” volunteers aimed to convey through their kind gestures.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Red Rose Day by bringing a little joy and beauty to people’s lives,” said Ed Morales, President of the Tournament of Roses. “A simple rose can convey so much – love, appreciation, and a reminder to stop and enjoy the moment.”

Hundreds of commuters at Union Station and visitors to Old PasadenaTown were surprised by the unexpected gift of a long-stem red rose. 

Morales explained that the gesture was a small token of “our gratitude to the people throughout the community who support us each New Year.”

The Tournament of Roses, a volunteer organization, hosts the Rose Parade, America’s New Year Celebration, with the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential, and various accompanying events. The Association’s 935 members contribute more than 80,000 volunteer hours to ensure the success of the 136th Rose Parade, themed “Best Day Ever!,” on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, and the 111th Rose Bowl Game.

The generous donation of hundreds of red roses by Passion Roses made the heartwarming initiative possible, bringing unexpected smiles to countless faces throughout Los Angeles. The Pasadena Tournament of Roses continues to spread cheer and embody the community spirit through their volunteer efforts and annual celebrations. 

For more information, visit www.tournamentofroses.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.