At a Glance
- Rain forecast for first time in 20 years at the 2026 Rose Parade.
- Parade begins 8 a.m. Thursday, 2026.
- Grand marshal: Magic Johnson; theme: “The Magic in Teamwork”.
- Why it matters: Attendees should prepare for wet weather and strict camping rules.
The 2026 Rose Parade will be the first to see rain in two decades, according to the latest weather forecast for Southern California. The event, scheduled for Thursday at 8 a.m., will feature NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson as grand marshal and a theme celebrating teamwork.
Rain Forecast & Parade Details
A late-December storm is expected to peak overnight Wednesday into Thursday, bringing showers that may become scattered later. Lisa Derderian stated:
> “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.”
Umbrellas are not permitted at the parade.
Parade Route & Timing
The 5.5-mile route starts at the corner of Green Street and Orange Grove Boulevard, runs north on Orange Grove, east on Colorado Boulevard, then north on Sierra Madre Boulevard, ending at Sierra Madre and Villa Street. Vehicles are barred from the route from 10 p.m. Wednesday until 2 p.m. Thursday.
Camping & Rules
Camping is allowed only the night before the parade, Wednesday evening. Claim spaces on the sidewalk beginning at noon Wednesday; all tents, blankets, and chairs must stay on the curb until 11 p.m. After 11 p.m., spectators may move to the blue “Honor Line” on the street.
- Small, professionally made barbecues must be elevated at least 1 foot off the ground and at least 25 feet from buildings or combustibles; a fire extinguisher must be available.
- Children under 18 may stay on the route from 10 p.m. Wednesday to 5 a.m. Thursday only if supervised by an adult.
- Dress in layers; tents, sofas, or boxes that can be used as stools or seats are prohibited.
- Bonfires, open containers of alcohol, and throwing objects into the roadway are prohibited.
- No drones are allowed; violations may result in arrest, prosecution, jail, or fines.
Getting There
Parking is limited and often sells out early, so visitors are urged to use Metro or other public transportation. Metro will provide all-night service on the A, B, D, and E lines New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day, with additional early-morning service Thursday morning. Free fares on all bus and rail lines run from 4 a.m. Wednesday through 3 a.m. Thursday.
- Four A Line stations lie within half a mile of the parade route; Sierra Madre Station can be used to reach the Floatfest following the parade.
- A free shuttle runs from 9 a.m. Thursday until two hours after the Rose Bowl Game, loading on Pasadena Avenue between Walnut and Holly streets.
History & Theme
The parade began in 1890, organized by members of the Valley Hunt Club to showcase Southern California in winter. The first event featured flower-decorated carriages, chariot races, jousting, foot races, and a tug-of-war. The first Tournament of Roses football game was played on January 1, 1902, and football was permanently reinstated in 1916.
The theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” celebrates the sense of accomplishment that comes from collaborative effort.
Key Takeaways
- Rain is expected, the first in 20 years, so plan for wet conditions.
- Magic Johnson will serve as grand marshal, and the parade starts at 8 a.m. Thursday.
- Strict camping rules and limited parking mean public transit is the best option.
The 2026 Rose Parade promises a historic, wet celebration that will test fans’ preparation and enthusiasm.
