Tournament of Roses' Rose Parade - Los Angeles Hotels .com

Each year on New Year's Day, close to 1 million people flood the streets of Pasadena, just eight miles northeast of Downtown LA, to catch a glimpse of the famous Tournament of Roses' Rose Parade. Dating back to January 1 in 1890, the first Rose Parade began the tradition of floral floats celebrating California's mild winter, followed by fair-style competitions--the precursor to today's renowned Rose Bowl football game.

To this day, the surface of all the Rose Parade floats must be covered entirely by flowers or other natural materials such as leaves, bark, and seeds. In addition to the stunning, state-of-the-art floats, the parade also features top local and national marching bands, a Rose Queen, and talented equestrian team displays.

The parade begins at 8 a.m. at Ellis Street and Orange Grove, continues for another 5-1/2 miles, and lasts approximately 2-1/2 hours from any given point. Spectators generally either come early to stake out a free spot or pay for grandstand seating. The giant floats continue to be displayed for a day or two after the parade, giving visitors a chance for an up-close look.

URL: http://www.tournamentofroses.com/roseparade