The popular Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, is an annual spectacular event consisting of two parts: a grand floral parade and a football game. This is how Californians have traditionally celebrated New Year's Day for many years. This is according to the tourism portal Visitcalifornia.com.
The Rose Parade has a rich history, first taking place in Pasadena in 1890. This impressive show consists of three alternating performances. Spectators watch performances by some of the world's best marching bands and enjoy equestrian competitions. A very colorful part of the parade is the procession of huge floral floats, handcrafted from millions of petals, seeds, and other natural materials with intricate patterns and designs.
“This extremely popular parade draws huge crowds, and people often set up tents the night before to secure the best viewing spots. If you don't want to rely on chance, consider purchasing one of the 70,000 grandstand seats," the report notes.
The portal also describes ways to see the parade preparations for free and without the crowds.
For example, in the last days of December, residents and guests of Pasadena can watch marching bands "warm up" for the parade at the BandFest, held at the city college. And you can admire the horse parade at the EquestFest, held at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in nearby Burbank.
You can also watch how the giant floats are decorated with flower petals in various locations in Pasadena. Depending on the location, volunteers may even be able to help decorate a float a few days before the parade. Additionally, you can see the vibrant floral floats up close after the parade: they are lined up along Pasadena boulevards for pedestrians to admire until January 2.
For many people, the most important part of the Rose Bowl is the American football game – the Rose Bowl Game, which debuted in 1902. This is a match between college teams that is today the oldest college football game in the United States.
“Fans of annual games and festivities should take the time to tour the Tournament House, which has served as the headquarters of the Rose Bowl and Parade since 1958, when this building, then known as the Wrigley Mansion, was donated to the city of Pasadena for that purpose,” the portal advises.
This house previously belonged to William Wrigley Jr. – the creator of Wrigley's chewing gum.
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