What is the name of the first New Year's Day parade held in Pasadena, California, now famous for flower-covered floats?

The first New Year’s Day parade in Pasadena, California, was the Tournament of Roses Parade.

The event began in 1890, organized by the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association. Members decorated horse-drawn carriages with flowers to promote Southern California’s mild winter climate, then staged games and festivities for visitors.

The parade became famous for floats covered with natural materials such as flowers, seeds, bark, and leaves. Its official modern name is the Rose Parade, although the Tournament of Roses name remains part of the event’s identity.

The parade is normally held on January 1, but when January 1 falls on a Sunday, it is held on Monday to avoid conflicting with church services. This rule is known as the “Never on Sunday” tradition.