The Rose Parade dates back to January 1, 1890, so as of New Year’s Day 2026 it is 136 years old.

How old is the Rose Parade?

  • The first Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade, now called the Rose Parade, was held on January 1, 1890.
  • Counting from 1890 to 2026, the tradition is 136 years old, making it one of the longest-running New Year’s celebrations in the United States.

Quick history snapshot

  • The event began when Pasadena’s Valley Hunt Club organized a midwinter festival to showcase California’s flowers and mild climate to friends from colder states.
  • What started as decorated horse-drawn carriages and simple games grew into today’s massive parade of floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units watched by millions worldwide each New Year’s.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.