> At a Glance
> – Rain forecast for January 1, 2026 Rose Parade in Pasadena
> – Only 10th time in parade’s history that rain has fallen
> – Umbrellas banned along 5.5-mile Colorado Boulevard route
> – Why it matters: Wet weather could impact the 137-year tradition that draws thousands of spectators
A late-December storm system is poised to make the 2026 Rose Parade a soggy affair, potentially ending a 20-year dry streak for the iconic New Year’s Day event.
The Weather Forecast
The storm is expected to peak overnight Wednesday into Thursday, with showers becoming more scattered by parade time. Lisa Derderian, public information officer for the city of Pasadena, confirmed the rarity:
> “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.”
Rain has fallen on the parade only 10 times in its history.
Parade Details
The 137th Rose Parade steps off at 8 a.m. Thursday regardless of weather conditions. The 5.5-mile route runs along Colorado Boulevard, beginning at Green Street and Orange Grove Boulevard, moving north on Orange Grove then east on Colorado Boulevard, before turning north on Sierra Madre Boulevard.
The route closes to vehicles at 10 p.m. Wednesday and remains closed until 2 p.m. Thursday.
2026 Theme and Grand Marshal
This year’s theme is “The Magic in Teamwork”, celebrating collective achievement. Magic Johnson, Lakers great and NBA Hall of Famer, serves as grand marshal.
Camping Rules and Restrictions
Overnight camping is permitted only on Wednesday night, with space-claiming allowed from noon Wednesday. Campers must remain on the curb until 11 p.m., then can move to the blue “Honor Line” on the street.
Key restrictions include:
- No umbrellas permitted
- No tents, sofas, or boxes used as seats
- No bonfires or open alcohol containers
- No drones along the entire route
- No selling spaces or items without city permits
- Ladders and scaffolding prohibited
- Adults must supervise anyone under 18 from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
- Throwing objects (even marshmallows or flowers) is banned
Small, elevated barbecues are allowed if they’re 1 foot off the ground, 25 feet from buildings, and have a fire extinguisher nearby.
Transportation Options
Metro provides the best access, with all-night service on A, B, D, and E lines New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day. Free fares run from 4 a.m. Wednesday through 3 a.m. Thursday.
Four A Line stations sit within half a mile of the route. A free shuttle runs from 9 a.m. Thursday until two hours after the Rose Bowl Game, with loading on Pasadena Avenue between Walnut and Holly streets.
Parade History
The Tournament of Roses began in 1890 when Valley Hunt Club members showcased Southern California’s winter beauty with flower-decorated carriages. The first football game wasn’t until January 1, 1902, with the tradition permanently reinstated in 1916.
Key Takeaways
- Rain forecast could make 2026 only the 10th wet parade in history
- Route spans 5.5 miles along Colorado Boulevard starting at 8 a.m.
- Strict camping rules include no umbrellas, tents, or alcohol
- Metro offers free fares and enhanced service for attendees
- Magic Johnson leads “The Magic in Teamwork” themed celebration
Whether rain or shine, thousands of dedicated fans will line the streets to maintain this 137-year Pasadena tradition.
