BREAKING: The 2026 Rose Parade and Rose Bowl game are set to honor fire victims and survivors on January 1, 2026, marking nearly a year since devastating wildfires ravaged communities in the greater Los Angeles area. This year’s celebration will feature special floats, vintage fire engines, and thousands of tickets gifted to fire survivors, emphasizing resilience and community spirit.
On January 7, 2025, two wildfires, notably the Eaton fire, tore through the Palisades and Altadena/Pasadena areas, significantly altering lives and landscapes. As the Rose Parade approaches, the Tournament of Roses is highlighting the theme “The Magic in Teamwork,” which acknowledges the collective effort in recovery from these disasters.
“The greatest achievements we have in life are not done alone,” said Mark Leavens, Tournament of Roses President. He selected the theme even before the fires, but its relevance has only deepened in light of recent events.
This year, the Rose Parade will prominently feature the float titled “Rising Together,” a tribute to the communities of Altadena, Pasadena, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu. The float, entered by the California Community Foundation and the Black Freedom Fund, showcases a large phoenix and California native plants, symbolizing rebirth and resilience.
Fire survivors, along with representatives from various nonprofits, will ride on the float, visually representing the strength of the community. Nic Arnzen, a member of the Altadena Town Council who lost his home in the Eaton fire, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to honor families impacted by the tragedy.
“Honoring these families is intended to shine a light on our loss and continuing struggle,” Arnzen stated. “They will beautifully carry the weight of the disaster that struck our area earlier this year.”
Additionally, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s float, “Food for Health,” will include local heroes who provided hot meals to fire-affected areas. Featured will be Janet and Christy Lee, co-owners of Fair Oaks Burger, along with Los Angeles Fire Captain Thomas Kitahata.
In a show of solidarity, Leavens and Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo will ride vintage fire engines down the parade route. Gordo will be in a 1937 American LaFrance fire engine, accompanied by key figures including Kathryn Barger, Los Angeles County Supervisor, and other community members who lost their homes to the fires.
As the Tournament of Roses continues to unveil details, the event is also expected to feature a float by the Sierra Madre Rose Float Association, humorously titled “Pancake Breakfast,” which pays tribute to firefighters. Despite initial criticism for its whimsical approach, the team has adjusted the float presentation to respect the occasion.
With thousands of tickets provided to fire survivors, the Rose Parade aims to offer a day of hope and healing amidst the lingering challenges of recovery. The Tournament of Roses is committed to ensuring that the memories and experiences of those affected remain at the forefront of this cherished annual event.
As the countdown to the Rose Parade begins, the focus on community resilience and support continues to grow. Viewers can expect a profound and emotional display of unity on New Year’s Day.
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach this significant celebration.
