The Pasadena Rose Parade: A Celebration of Community, Tradition, and Joy
Every January 1st, the streets of Pasadena transform into a vibrant display of music, floats, and community spirit for the Pasadena Rose Parade. This iconic event draws visitors from across the globe, offering a unique way to welcome the new year.
If you’re planning to attend the 2025 Rose Parade or looking for insider tips, this guide will help you make the most of the experience.
The following information is compiled from various sources. Information can be updated or changed, please confirm or validate with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses.
2025 Grand Marshal: Billie Jean King
This year, Billie Jean King, the renowned tennis legend and advocate for equality, will lead the parade as Grand Marshal. Her selection ties perfectly into this year’s theme: “Best Day Ever!”, a celebration of “life’s best moments”. King’s involvement reflects not only her impact on sports but also her dedication to creating inclusive spaces for all.
Plan Your Route: Road Closures and Viewing Areas
With thousands of attendees, planning where to watch the parade is essential. Road closures along Colorado Blvd., the primary parade route, start at 10:00 PM on December 31 and remain in place until 2:00 PM on January 1.
Grandstand seating tickets are on sale now. To purchase tickets click here. If you have bleacher seat tickets, be sure to follow the provided instructions carefully to ensure you arrive on time and avoid any disruptions from road closures.
Locals recommend several great viewing spots along Colorado Blvd:
- Old Town area: If you want to be at the start, plan to set up the night before or very early in the morning
- Lake Avenue: Less crowded east of the Lake area, with refreshed parade participants
- PCC Area (Pasadena City College) area: Less crowded than Lake Ave., but it’s even quieter beyond
- Sierra Madre Blvd: Toward the end of the route but more chill
If you’re watching with kids, dress warm. Pack blankets, hats, gloves, ear muffs, and snacks, and bring chairs if you arrive early. Noise-canceling headphones are helpful for children sensitive to loud sounds.
Pre-Parade Magic: Float Decorating and Volunteer Opportunities
Before the parade, visitors can experience the intricate craftsmanship behind the floats at Decorating Places. From December 28 to 30, float builders and volunteers apply thousands of flowers, seeds, and organic materials, transforming ideas into art. Attendees can tour the facilities and see the floats come to life.
- December 28: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- December 29 & 30: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Volunteering to decorate a float is a rewarding way to get involved in the festivities. Local float builders welcome both groups and individuals. Click here to check the list for some local organizations.
-Volunteers should wear warm old clothes and close-toed shoes—float decorating can be messy! Most float builders have minimum age requirements.
Bandfest and Equestfest: Pre-Parade Events
The parade excitement kicks off early with two signature events.
Bandfest
Over two days, the marching bands selected for the parade showcase their musical talents at Pasadena City College’s Robinson Stadium. With free parking in Structure 4 off Del Mar Avenue, this event offers a chance to enjoy lively field shows featuring music, dance, and pageantry.
Equestfest
For equestrian enthusiasts, Equestfest at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center offers an up-close look at the parade’s horse units. Visitors can enjoy performances, meet the riders, and explore interactive exhibits. Parking is available for $20 per car, and the event promises fun for all ages with live music and food vendors.
New Year’s Eve Fun: Run with the Roses 5K
Start your New Year’s Eve with a unique tradition by joining the lululemon Run with the Roses 5K. The race begins just before midnight on December 31 and ends in the early hours of January 1 along Colorado Blvd. It’s a fun and festive way to kick off the year with community spirit and fitness.
Floatfest: A Post-Parade Showcase
If you want to see the floats up close, don’t miss Floatfest: A Rose Parade Showcase. This event runs from January 1 to 3 along Sierra Madre Blvd. and E Washington Blvd. Visitors can walk a 2.5-mile path to admire the floral masterpieces at a leisurely pace. A free shuttle from Pasadena City College will transport guests to the venue every five minutes, ensuring easy access and priority entry.
Attending the 111th Rose Bowl Game
The festivities don’t stop with the parade! The 111th Rose Bowl Game will take place on January 1, 2025, serving as a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal. This exciting matchup will feature two of the top-12 teams in the nation, promising an unforgettable afternoon for football fans. Attendees are encouraged to walk or take a shuttle to the Rose Bowl to avoid long waits when leaving parking lots after the game.
Local Tips for Enjoying the Floats and Parade with the kiddos
On December 31st, the night before the parade, you can catch a sneak peek of the beautifully decorated floats as they line up along Orange Grove Boulevard, starting around 8:00 or 9:00 PM. This unique opportunity is completely free and offers a more relaxed way to view the floats without the crowds of parade day. Orange Grove is closed to traffic, so you’ll need to park nearby and walk over. Start at the intersection of Orange Grove and Colorado Boulevard, then walk south along Orange Grove to see the floats in their final staging area. Some locals also recommend checking out float preparation areas near the Rose Bowl, close to the Jackie Robinson baseball fields, or at Fair Oaks and Mound Ave under the footbridge in South Pasadena for additional float viewing opportunities.
Local insights make a huge difference when attending the Rose Parade. Dressing warmly with blankets, hats, gloves, and layers is essential—especially if you have tickets and will be sitting on cold steel bleachers. Bringing snacks, water, and noise-canceling headphones can make the experience more comfortable, especially for young kids.
Popular viewing spots include the Lake Avenue area, where the crowd is energized, and participants are still fresh. While it’s busier closer to Lake, heading east of Lake or near Pasadena City College (PCC) offers more open space. Avoid Old Town Pasadena, as it gets extremely crowded near the parade’s starting point. If you’re looking for an easier experience, consider Sierra Madre Blvd. near the end—it’s quieter and offers better parking. Bringing chairs is helpful for waiting, but expect to stand once the parade starts. If you prefer the warmth, stand on the sunny side of the route—it’s usually more comfortable by 9 AM. Taking the train early makes getting to Colorado Blvd. easier, and arriving between 6-7 AM gives you the best chance of finding a good spot. Remember, it’s okay to leave early if it gets too cold or overwhelming—enjoy the parade at your own pace. Don’t forget the hot chocolate!
Wrap-Up: Make This Rose Parade Your Best Day Ever
The Pasadena Rose Parade is a cherished tradition that brings people together to celebrate the new year with creativity, music, and community. Whether you have bleacher seats, volunteer to decorate floats, attend Bandfest or Equestfest, or secure a prime viewing spot along the route, this event promises unforgettable memories.
Don’t forget to dress warmly, pack snacks, and plan your arrival time carefully for the best experience. With Billie Jean King leading the way as Grand Marshal, the 2025 Rose Parade is set to inspire with its “Best Day Ever!” theme. Whether it’s your first time attending or a yearly tradition, this parade offers a joyful way to start the year with family and friends.
So, grab your blankets and chairs, embrace the festive spirit, and get ready to enjoy one of the world’s most spectacular New Year’s Day celebrations!
Pasadena 2024 Rose Parade Route Map