Rain or shine, the city of Pasadena is gearing up for an unforgettable New Year’s Day as the 137th Rose Parade prepares to roll down Colorado Boulevard on January 1, 2026. For the first time in two decades, weather forecasters are predicting rain for the iconic event, a rare occurrence that has both organizers and paradegoers buzzing with anticipation and a dash of concern. The last time rain fell during the parade was back in 2006, making this year’s forecast a notable exception to the usually sunny Southern California tradition.
Preparations for the 2026 Rose Parade have been nothing short of monumental. According to KABC, volunteers have spent countless hours meticulously decorating the famous floral floats, many of which began their slow, soggy journey to Pasadena on December 31. The move, which takes hours to complete, is an event in itself. "It's like being at the parade without having to be at the parade," remarked Mark Cook, a Covina resident, as he watched the floats make their way in the rain. Many fans, undeterred by the drizzle, came armed with umbrellas and ponchos, although umbrellas themselves won’t be allowed along the parade route during the event.
For families like the Farrs from Pomona, the Rose Parade is more than just a spectacle—it’s a cherished tradition. "This is a family tradition. We've been doing it for over 10 years. I think these guys have been out here since they were babies, and we do this every year, rain or shine," Eric Farr told KABC. Despite the wet forecast, spirits remain high, though the number of early campers staking out coveted spots has noticeably dwindled compared to previous years. Covered chairs now outnumber campers along Colorado Boulevard, as the threat of rain keeps some would-be spectators at bay.
Camping rules are being strictly enforced this year, with authorities prohibiting tents, pop-ups, sofas, and even boxes that could be used as seats along the route, as reported by NBC Los Angeles. Only small, professionally made barbecues—elevated at least a foot off the ground and kept 25 feet from buildings—are allowed, and only if a fire extinguisher is handy. Bonfires, open alcohol containers, and selling spaces or items without a permit are all strictly forbidden. Ladders, scaffolding, and drones are also a no-go, with the Federal Aviation Administration extending its No Drone Zone to cover both the parade and the Rose Bowl game.
For those braving the elements, organizers recommend dressing in layers and preparing for cold, wet weather. As Lisa Derderian, Pasadena’s public information officer, told NBC Los Angeles, "The last time it rained was 2006 during the parade. It was coming down pretty good, I was there myself, but these diehard fans are there. They want to see the parade, they’re there often. It's a tradition." In fact, rain has only fallen on the parade 10 times in its long history, making this year’s forecast all the more memorable.
To keep everyone safe, Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin emphasized the city’s reliance on real-time information from the National Weather Service to monitor the storm and any lightning threats. "When you have a 5 1/2 mile parade route that's moving, we really are going to rely on our partners at the National Weather Service. We have real-time information on what this storm is doing, where the lightning is, and then we can make the best informed decision to keep the public safe," Augustin told KABC.
The floats themselves—14 of which were created by Phoenix Decorating Company—have been carefully shielded from the elements, with officials covering their most delicate details to protect them from the rain. By midnight on December 31, all floats are expected to be in place, ready for their grand debut at 8 a.m. on January 1.
This year’s parade theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” celebrates the collective spirit and sense of accomplishment that comes from working together. Tournament of Roses officials say the theme is about recognizing that “by working together, we can collectively achieve outcomes so much richer than we can ever experience as individuals.” It’s a fitting message for a parade that relies on the dedication of thousands of volunteers, artisans, and community members to bring it to life each year.
Adding star power to the festivities, Lakers legend and NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson will serve as the 2026 Rose Parade’s grand marshal. He’ll be riding in one of the parade’s signature convertibles, which, as communications director Candy Carlson noted, will have their tops up to shield VIPs from the rain. The parade will feature its usual array of floral-covered floats, high-stepping marching bands, and spirited equestrian units, all making their way along the 5.5-mile route through downtown Pasadena.
For those planning to attend, the parade route will close to vehicles at 10 p.m. on December 31 and remain closed until 2 p.m. on January 1. Camping along the route is permitted only on the night before the parade, with spaces claimable starting at noon on December 31. Spectators can move out to the blue "Honor Line" on the street after 11 p.m., but all people and property must remain on the curb until then.
Getting to the parade is expected to be a challenge, with parking in high demand and likely to sell out early. Metro is stepping up to help, providing all-night service on the A, B, D, and E lines from New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day, with free fares from 4 a.m. on December 31 to 3 a.m. on January 1. Several Metro A Line stations are within a half-mile of the parade route, making public transit the preferred option for many attendees. After the parade, a free shuttle will run from 9 a.m. until two hours after the Rose Bowl game, with loading on Pasadena Avenue between Walnut and Holly streets.
For those unable to make it in person—or just wanting to stay dry—the Rose Parade will be broadcast nationally on ABC, NBC, CNN, and other channels, with streaming options available on DirecTV, Fubo, Pluto TV, TikTok, FanDuel Sports Network West, and the Christmas Plus app. The parade’s enduring appeal means that, rain or shine, millions will tune in from across the country to watch the spectacle unfold.
The Rose Parade’s origins stretch back to 1890, when members of the Valley Hunt Club organized the first event as a way to showcase Southern California’s winter beauty to the world. The Tournament of Roses football game followed in 1902, eventually becoming a permanent fixture in 1916. This year, as always, the parade will serve as a prelude to the Rose Bowl game, where the Alabama Crimson Tide will face off against the Indiana Hoosiers at 1 p.m. PT (4 p.m. ET), broadcast on ESPN.
As Pasadena braces for a rare rainy parade day, one thing is certain: the spirit of the Rose Parade endures, undampened by the weather. Whether huddled under ponchos on the sidewalk or watching from the warmth of home, fans old and new will witness a tradition that continues to bloom, year after year.
