The 137th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena is expected to see morning showers — the first likely wet parade since 2006 — but organizers say the procession will continue as planned. The parade begins at 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT and features grand marshal Earvin "Magic" Johnson and the theme "The Magic in Teamwork." Major networks and streaming services will carry the event, followed by the Rose Bowl at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT (Indiana vs. Alabama) on ESPN. Spectators should plan for wet weather and consider rain gear and early arrival.
137th Rose Parade Expected To Be Rainy — Parade Will Go On
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Rain is forecast for Pasadena on New Year’s morning, but organizers say the 137th Tournament of Roses Parade will proceed as planned — likely the first wet parade since 2006. Showers are expected during the morning hours and may clear by the afternoon, when the Rose Bowl game is scheduled to begin.
The 2024 Rose Court at the Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif., in 2024. (Casey Durkin / NBC file)
What To Expect
The 5.5-mile parade route normally draws hundreds of thousands of spectators, and light-to-moderate rain could affect crowd sizes and viewing conditions. The Rose Parade has experienced rain only 10 times in its long history, Pasadena spokesperson Lisa Derderian told NBC Los Angeles.
Participants in the 2025 Rose Parade travel down Orange Grove Boulevard near the intersection with Colorado Boulevard on Jan. 1. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images file)
"It was coming down pretty good. I was sitting out there myself," Derderian recalled about the 2006 parade. "And you know, these die-hard fans are there. They want to see the parade. They're there. Often, it's a tradition."
Floats, Performers and Theme
This year’s theme is "The Magic in Teamwork," celebrating collective achievement. Former Los Angeles Lakers star Earvin "Magic" Johnson will serve as grand marshal. The parade will feature elaborately decorated flower-covered floats, marching bands and a lineup of musical performances.
Nicholas St. Clair, a lead floral designer, gathers a bucket of the "Hearts Rose" in the flower tent in 2024. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images file)
- Opening Acts: Kiesza and Aloe Blacc will kick off a "high-energy" opening spectacle with synchronized lights, pyrotechnics and staged stunts.
- Additional Performers: Timothy Wayne, Chapel Hart and Brandon Bennett are scheduled to perform along the route.
- Finale: Betty Who and Debbie Gibson will close the televised presentation with a duet evoking 1980s nostalgia, joined by students from the Debbie Allen Dance Academy.
When And Where To Watch
The parade begins at 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT on New Year’s Day. National broadcast coverage is available on ABC, NBC, CNN and Fox. The Tournament of Roses will also offer an official livestream, and the parade will stream on platforms including Pluto TV, FanDuel Sports Network and Fubo Sports Network.
Rose Bowl Game
The Rose Bowl kicks off later in the day at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT, featuring the Indiana University Hoosiers vs. the University of Alabama Crimson Tide. The game will air on ESPN.
Brief History
The Tournament of Roses began in 1890, organized by the Valley Hunt Club as a celebration to showcase Southern California’s mild winter climate. Over more than a century, the parade has become a New Year’s tradition that reaches millions via in-person attendance and broadcast audiences.
Tips For Spectators
If you plan to attend, bring rain gear and waterproof seating, arrive early to secure a spot, and follow any instructions from parade marshals. Organizers may make minor adjustments to performances or staging for safety if weather conditions worsen.
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