The Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, is back, bringing floral floats, marching bands, and horses to the streets. This annual spectacle blends tradition and teamwork. It takes months of preparation, turning New Year’s Day into a colorful show that draws attention from across the country.

The 137th Rose Parade will take place on Thursday, January 1, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM ET. Major networks ABC, NBC, and KTLA 5 will broadcast the parade, while Spanish-language viewers can tune in via Univision and Telemundo.

Free livestreams are available on the KTLA 5 website, Pluto TV, and the Christmas Plus app, making it accessible nationwide. Fans across the United States can watch the floats, marching bands, and equestrian units from home.

The parade features more than 40 floats, dozens of equestrian units, and marching bands representing high schools, universities, and professional ensembles. Each float must be completely covered in natural materials, including flowers, seeds, bark, and leaves.

Thousands of volunteers spend hours decorating, using up to 100,000 blossoms per creation. Organizers also maintain strict route and safety protocols, coordinating local law enforcement, city officials, and crowd control to ensure smooth execution along Colorado Boulevard.

While viewers prepare to watch the 2026 Rose Parade unfold live, the century-long story behind its floats, bands, and traditions reveals how meticulous effort turned spectacle into legend.

The Rose Parade's history- From 1890 to televised spectacle

Founded by the Valley Hunt Club in 1890, the Rose Parade showcased California’s mild winter. It was originally organized to impress visitors from the East Coast. Early festivities included flower-covered horse carriages, chariot races, and tug-of-war contests.

The first Rose Bowl Game occurred in 1902 and became permanent in 1916. In 1952, the parade became the first nationally televised color broadcast. Over time, floats, marching bands, and equestrian units became increasingly elaborate, reflecting meticulous volunteer labor and cultural heritage.

Grand Marshal Earvin 'Magic' Johnson will lead the 2026 parade, representing athletic achievement and community leadership. The never on Sunday rule, effective since 1893, ensures church services are not disrupted.

Floats adhere to stringent design regulations, and fans often camp along Colorado Boulevard on New Year’s Eve for prime viewing. The parade remains a synthesis of artistry, teamwork, and history, preserving traditions while showcasing floral innovation, precision choreography, and large-scale public spectacle.

What are your thoughts on the 2026 Rose Parade, its planning, and its century-long traditions? Let us know in the comments below.

Written by

Shraddha Priyadarshi

Edited by

Itti Mahajan