Tournament Of Roses Parade Everyone loves a parade! One of the oldest and most colorful ones is the annual Tournament of Roses Parade, held in Pasadena in California. The first one was organized in 1890 and the townsfolk are proud of this tradition. The parade has followed the popular Rose Bowl college football game since 1923 and excitement in the town is at fever pitch. The parade would not be possible without the help of many volunteers who work tirelessly to make the event a success. Normally taking place on New Year's Day, unless this falls on a Sunday, millions of people line the route and it attracts a large television audience across several networks. The same route has been followed for many years, starting at South Orange Grove Boulevard and finishing at Paloma Street. The Tournament of Roses Parade route is 9km long and takes about two and a half hours to pass through. Floats, marching bands and horses are the traditional attractions with many of the floats beautifully decorated with flowers. The floats are exhibited near Victory Park when the parade has finished. Each year's parade has a theme and this is sometimes linked to the selection of the Grand Marshall of the Parade, an honorary position bestowed each year. Past Grand Marshalls have included politicians and show business personalities, such as Shirley Temple, Bob Hope, Richard Nixon and Dwight Eisenhower. Past themes include The Spirit of America, Holidays Around the World, Symbols of Freedom and Pages from the Ages. Following the Second World War, the theme for 1945 was Victory, Unity and Peace. One of the highlights of the Tournament of Roses Parade is the crowning of the Queen of the Tournament of the Roses. To be eligible for the competition, the young ladies have to promote the parade and be aged between 17 and 21 years old. More than 1,000 young women put themselves forward each year. In addition to the chosen queen there are six selected princesses. The queen is given scholarship money and clothes. A parade must have a band and there are several marching bands that participate each year, providing atmosphere with stirring music and colorful uniforms. Some of the most prominent bands visit from outside the USA to join the familiar American bands from universities and colleges. Regular participants in the Tournament of Roses Parade include the Salvation Army Band and the United States Marine Corps Marching Band. Summary The Tournament Of Roses Parade is held annually in Pasadena California following the Rose Bowl college football game. It is a tradition that has been followed and celebrated since the 1890s. It usually takes place on New Years day unless it is a Sunday. Crowning of the queen of the parade is the highlight with the winner receiving scholarships, money, or clothing. Related Articles Fantasy Football Websites Safety At Sporting Events Related Sites