The 2026 Rose Parade kicks off today at 8 AM PT in Pasadena. This 137th annual celebration features the inspiring theme ‘Magic in Teamwork’ and will be led by legendary Lakers Magic Johnson as Grand Marshal. The iconic New Year’s Day tradition draws over 700,000 live spectators and millions more watching from home.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Start Time: 8 AM PT (11 AM ET) on Thursday, January 1, 2026
- Route: 5.5 miles along Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, California
- Grand Marshal: Basketball legend Magic Johnson, honoring his sports career and philanthropy
- Featured: 85 parade entries including floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units
What Time Does the Rose Parade Start Today?
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The 137th Rose Parade presented by Honda steps off at 8 AM Pacific Time on Thursday morning. For viewers on the East Coast, that translates to 11 AM EST. The parade maintains a leisurely pace of 2.5 miles per hour, moving north along Orange Grove Boulevard before turning east onto Colorado Boulevard where the bulk of the spectacle unfolds.
The event runs for approximately two hours from start to finish. Spectators planning to watch in person are advised to arrive early and secure seating before 7 AM if positioned west of Fair Oaks Avenue, or by 8 AM if seated elsewhere on the route.
The ‘Magic in Teamwork’ Theme Celebrates Collaboration
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This year’s parade theme, ‘The Magic in Teamwork,’ celebrates the power of collective effort and service. Tournament of Roses officials selected this theme to honor the strength found when people come together toward common goals. The theme perfectly aligns with Grand Marshal Magic Johnson’s legacy, as he exemplified teamwork during his storied 13-season NBA career with the Lakers.
The theme recognizes the many organizations, agencies, and community partners that make the parade possible each year. It highlights the “simple but powerful truth that when people come together, we accomplish extraordinary things,” according to officials. Over 85 spectacular entries will bring this message of unity and collaboration to life along the parade route today.
Magic Johnson Leads as Grand Marshal
Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson, the legendary point guard who led the Lakers to five NBA championships, serves as the 2026 Grand Marshal. His selection honors not only his unprecedented sports achievements but also his remarkable business success and extensive philanthropic work. Johnson will ride through Pasadena leading the entire parade down Colorado Boulevard.
Johnson represents the latest in a distinguished line of athletes honored as Rose Parade Grand Marshals. His career with the Lakers spanned the dynamic 1980s and early 1990s, and he remains an iconic figure in sports history. Beyond basketball, Johnson has built successful business ventures and worked extensively on health and community initiatives.
Where to Watch the Parade Live
The Rose Parade will broadcast on multiple national networks including ABC, NBC, CNN, and Fox. For those without cable access, streaming options include Peacock, Fubo Sports Network, Pluto TV, and the official Rose Parade livestream. Regional viewers can tune into KTLA for Los Angeles-area coverage. The parade also streams on additional platforms including Samsung TV Plus.
For in-person views, the 5.5-mile parade route begins at the corner of Green Street and Orange Grove Boulevard in downtown Pasadena. The route travels north on Orange Grove before turning east onto Colorado Boulevard, where the majority of floats and performances take place. The parade concludes near Sierra Madre Boulevard at Villa Street. Spectators can find free viewing spots along the route on a first-come, first-served basis.
What Else Happens Today Besides the Parade?
The 112th Rose Bowl Game follows immediately after the parade concludes, kicking off at 1 PM PT (4 PM ET). This major college football championship game will be played at the historic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena. The earlier start time than the traditional 2 PM was implemented to better accommodate nationwide viewers and schedule coordination.
Prior to the main parade, the lululemon Run With the Roses 5K takes place early morning for participants who want to kick off their New Year’s Day. Following the parade, fans can visit FloatFest: A Rose Parade Showcase, where nearly 70,000 visitors can view the floats up close along Sierra Madre and Washington Boulevard for details and craftsmanship appreciation. This celebration of teamwork and spectacle makes January 1 a complete entertainment experience in Pasadena.
Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.