The Rose Bowl Parade kicks off at 8 a.m. PT on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026. This iconic 137th Rose Parade takes place in Pasadena, California, featuring spectacular floats adorned with flowers and marching bands from across the nation. Discover how to watch this beloved tradition live from your home this morning.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Start Time: 8 a.m. PT on January 1, 2026 (11 a.m. ET, 10 a.m. CT)
- Duration: Two-hour parade featuring 63 entries including floats, bands, and equestrian units
- Route: 5.5-mile course starting at Green Street and Orange Grove Boulevard in Pasadena
- Broadcast Partners: NBC, ABC, Telemundo, and multiple streaming platforms will air the event
Rose Bowl Parade Broadcast Channels and Streaming Options
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The 137th Rose Parade will broadcast live on multiple television networks including NBC, ABC, and Telemundo. You can also stream the parade on Peacock, Fubo, and DirecTV. For those in the Los Angeles area, KTLA 5 offers free streaming through their website and mobile app.
The official Tournament of Roses livestream presents the parade in full, available on the official website starting at 8 a.m. PST. Streaming is also available on Christmas Plus, Dooya, FanDuel Sports Network, and multiple other digital platforms. YouTube TV subscribers can watch ABC’s coverage with a 7-day free trial.
Parade Details: Route, Lineup, and What to Expect
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The Rose Parade route travels 5.5 miles through Pasadena, beginning at the corner of Green Street and Orange Grove Boulevard. The parade moves north on Orange Grove Boulevard at a leisurely pace before turning east onto Colorado Boulevard, where most viewing takes place. The entire route typically takes two hours to complete.
| Event Element | Details |
| Start Time | 8 a.m. PT / 11 a.m. ET |
| Route Length | 5.5 miles through Pasadena |
| Total Entries | 63 floats, bands, and equestrian units |
| Float Requirements | All floats must be covered in natural flowers, seeds, and plant materials |
History and Tradition of the Rose Parade
The Rose Parade has been a New Year’s Day tradition since 1890, when the Valley Hunt Club organized the first Tournament of Roses. The parade originated from the club’s celebration of Southern California’s blooming flowers during winter months. Charles Frederick Holder, a club leader, inspired the creation of decorated carriages adorned with colorful blooms.
Over 135 years, the parade has evolved into an internationally televised spectacle viewed by millions worldwide. Every float must follow strict rules: all visible surfaces must be covered with natural materials including flowers, seeds, bark, and leaves. No artificial materials can show on the parade floats, maintaining the tradition’s authenticity and natural beauty.
What Happens If It Rains on Parade Day?
Rain or shine, the Rose Parade always proceeds on January 1st unless that day falls on a Sunday, in which it relocates to January 2nd. The Tournament of Roses has never canceled the parade regardless of weather conditions. This year’s parade is set for January 1, 2026, and will go forward as scheduled.
The parade has weathered rainy conditions multiple times throughout its history. Floats are designed to withstand moisture, and the event’s organizers ensure all participants are prepared for any weather scenario. Viewers watching from home can enjoy the spectacle comfortably from their living rooms on television or streaming services.
Why Should You Mark Your Calendar for the Rose Bowl Parade Today?
The Rose Bowl Parade represents more than just entertainment—it’s a cherished American tradition celebrating creativity, community, and the beauty of nature. With 63 spectacular entries featuring elaborate floats, talented marching bands, and equestrian units, the parade offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re a longtime enthusiast or watching for the first time, the parade captures unforgettable moments of artistry and pageantry. Multiple streaming options make it accessible from anywhere, and the two-hour broadcast fits perfectly into New Year’s Day morning routines. Mark your calendar for 8 a.m. PT and don’t miss this iconic celebration that has entertained generations since 1890.
Sources
- Today Show – Complete broadcast details and viewing times for 2026
- Tournament of Roses Official – Parade route, lineup, and livestream information
- NBC Los Angeles – Start times, weather updates, and broadcast schedule
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.