The first New Year’s Day parade held in Pasadena in 1890 was the Rose Parade.
The Rose Parade, officially the Tournament of Roses Parade, is organized by the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association. It began on January 1, 1890, after members of the Valley Hunt Club wanted to showcase Southern California’s mild winter climate. Their parade included decorated horse-drawn carriages, games and other attractions.
The event became famous for elaborate floats covered with natural materials such as flowers, seeds, bark and leaves. Marching bands and equestrian units later became central features. Since 1902, the parade has been connected with a college football game, now known as the Rose Bowl Game, although the parade and game are separate events.
The Rose Parade is held on New Year’s Day, except when January 1 falls on a Sunday; in that case, it moves to Monday, following the tradition known as “Never on Sunday.” It is not the same as the Rose Bowl Game or Pasadena’s broader Tournament of Roses organization.