The streets of Pasadena, California, are gearing up for the 136th Rose Parade, a beloved annual tradition filled with elaborate floral floats, musical performances, and timeless customs. Whether attending in person or tuning in from home, here’s everything you need to know about this iconic celebration.
How to Watch the 2025 Rose Bowl Parade 2025
The parade begins at 8 a.m. PST on Monday, January 1, 2025.
- TV Broadcast: Major channels will broadcast the event. Check your local listings for details.
- Streaming: For the first time, the Pasadena Star-News will live-stream the parade on its YouTube channel starting at 10 a.m. PST. The stream will feature a unique vantage point near the 210 freeway bridge.
- Social Media: Follow @PasStarNews on X (formerly Twitter) for behind-the-scenes content and live updates.
The Floats
This year’s floats include a mix of themes, from military tributes to the musical magic of Wicked.
- Historic First: The parade will feature its first-ever all-electric float fleet, showcasing innovation and sustainability.
- For a detailed guide to the floats, bands, and equestrian units, check out the Pasadena Star-News’ comprehensive list.
Musical Performances
The 2025 parade will feature high-energy performances from a variety of artists:
- Opening Spectacular:
- Kiesza will perform her global hit “Hideaway,” delivering renewed energy.
- Aloe Blacc will captivate with “Wake Me Up,” his iconic collaboration with the late Avicii.
- Mid-Parade Performance:
- Brandon Bennett and Chapel Hart will perform a tribute to musical legends Elvis Presley and B.B. King, blending country, gospel, rock, and soul.
- Grand Finale:
- Debbie Gibson, Broadway star and ’80s pop sensation, promises a theatrical and dramatic performance to close the parade.
- Marching Bands: Bands from across the country will march the 5.5-mile route, navigating corners with creative flair.
The Parade Theme and Traditions
The 2025 Rose Parade theme is “Best Day Ever!” This optimistic theme celebrates life’s joyous moments and sets the tone for the floats, performances, and participants.
- Grand Marshal: Billie Jean King, legendary tennis icon and advocate for gender equality, will lead the parade.
- Rose Queen: Lindsay Charles, a 17-year-old Pasadena local passionate about community and sustainability, takes center stage.
The Big Game
Following the parade, the 111th Rose Bowl Game 2025 will kick off at 2 p.m. PST. This year’s matchup features Ohio State versus No. 1 Oregon.
Whether you’re there in person or watching from afar, the 136th Rose Parade promises to deliver a spectacular start to 2025 with breathtaking visuals, inspiring performances, and cherished traditions.
