If you were hoping for sunshine and selfies at this year’s Rose Parade, the atmosphere has other plans. The National Weather Service says there’s a near 100 percent chance of rain for the 137th Rose Parade in Pasadena, and yes, that includes the overnight hours for anyone planning to camp out along the route. So if you’re sleeping curbside, think “cozy rain gear,” not “cute picnic blanket.”
Pasadena officials are reminding campers to bring weather-rated sleeping bags and plenty of layers. Tents, ladders, scaffolding, sofas (yes, people try), and bonfires are all a hard no. Translation: You can be festive, but you can’t be feral. Full parade rules are posted online, and they’re worth a skim before you pack.
Meteorologists say moderate rain is likely across Los Angeles County starting New Year’s Eve and continuing into New Year’s Day. The last soggy Rose Parade was in 2006. Before that, you’d have to go all the way back to 1955. And if you really want to impress people at brunch, 1934 holds the title for wettest parade ever.
Rain or shine—or drizzle—the parade is still happening. KTLA cameras caught crews setting up grandstands along Colorado Boulevard this week, because flower power waits for no forecast. Parade officials say cars may put their tops up, band members and walkers will rock clear ponchos, and the floats are built to handle moisture. Organizers say they will simply get a little heavier as the flowers soak it all in.
If the idea of damp socks ruins your New Year’s vibe, you can watch the parade live on KTLA and KTLA+. Otherwise, thousands are still expected to line the streets starting Wednesday to claim prime viewing spots for the 8 a.m. Thursday kickoff. The parade runs its classic 5½-mile route from Green Street and Orange Grove Boulevard through Colorado, ending near Sierra Madre and Villa.
Camping is only allowed on Wednesday night. You can claim sidewalk space starting at noon, but you have to stay on the curb until 11 p.m., when spectators can move to the blue “Honor Line” in the street. Route closures begin at 10 p.m. Wednesday and last until about 2 p.m. Thursday.
A few important reminders for parade survival:
- Dress in layers and prepare for cold, wet weather
- Small raised barbecues are allowed—with rules, distance requirements, and a fire extinguisher
- Kids under 18 need adult supervision overnight
- No selling items or spaces, no roping off public areas
- No open alcohol containers
- No throwing anything onto the parade route (even marshmallows—don’t ask)
- And yes, it’s a strict no-drone zone, including over the Rose Bowl, with real consequences if you ignore it
Metro is offering all-night service on several rail lines and free fares starting early Wednesday through early Thursday. There are multiple A Line stations within a half-mile of the route, plus easy access to Floatfest and Rose Bowl shuttles later in the day.
The theme this year is “The Magic in Teamwork,” which brings us to the most perfectly on-brand choice imaginable: Grand Marshal Earvin "Magic" Johnson. Tournament of Roses President Mark Leavens says they’ve never had a grand marshal whose nickname literally matches the theme. Johnson calls the honor surreal, saying he grew up watching the parade every New Year’s Day—never imagining he’d one day lead it.
One of the 16 Rose Parade floats currently in production at Artistic Entertainment Services is the 2026 Rose Parade float for Princess Cruises. The 55-foot-long, 21-foot-tall float showcases the cruise line’s newest ship, the Star Princess, in a larger-than-life floral display.
The Star Princess recently set sail on its maiden voyage from Barcelona and is the newest addition to Princess Cruises’ fleet. The 177,800-ton ship can carry more than 4,300 guests and features expanded entertainment offerings, bold new design elements, and a special tribute to a well-known Los Angeles landmark.
Company officials say the Star Princess will play a major role in Princess Cruises’ largest Alaska season ever. Beginning May 3 through September 19, 2026, the ship is scheduled to operate weekly seven-day Inside Passage cruises from Seattle as part of a lineup that includes eight vessels making 180 departures across 19 destinations.
So yes, it might rain. But this is Southern California. A little drizzle won’t stop a parade, a marching band, or Magic Johnson. Just bring a poncho, a sense of humor, and maybe an extra pair of socks.
Listen to the full conversation with Leavens on Entertain Me with Heather Brooker to get the scoop on the big day.