New Year’s Day in Pasadena begins with one of America’s most recognisable traditions. The Tournament of Roses Parade returns for 2026 with its familiar mix of floral floats, high-energy marching bands and equestrian units, drawing millions of viewers both in person and on television.
What time does the Rose Parade start in 2026?
The Rose Parade will take place on Thursday, January 1, 2026, and will begin at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time. For viewers across the United States, that translates to 10:00 a.m. Central Time and 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time.
The televised broadcast typically runs for around two hours, though the parade itself moves steadily along the route throughout the morning. Early coverage often captures the most detailed float designs before crowds thicken along Colorado Boulevard.
Rose Parade route: where it starts and finishes
The parade follows a 5.5-mile route through Pasadena. It begins at Green Street and Orange Grove Boulevard, continues north along Orange Grove, then turns east onto the iconic Colorado Boulevard.
Near the end of the procession, the route turns north onto Sierra Madre Boulevard before finishing at Villa Street. Each section of the route typically experiences about two hours of parade activity as floats, bands and riders pass through.
One of the most recognisable viewing spots is the intersection of Orange Grove and Colorado, often referred to as “TV Corner,” where many national broadcasters set up their main cameras.
What channel is the Rose Parade on?
The Rose Parade will be broadcast nationally in the United States on NBC, with a Spanish-language broadcast available on Telemundo. ABC also airs a live national broadcast beginning at the same start time.
Channel listings can vary slightly by provider and region, so viewers are advised to check their local TV guide on New Year’s morning to confirm the exact channel number.
How to watch the Rose Parade 2026 online
For viewers without traditional cable, the parade is expected to be available through several live-TV streaming services that carry major U.S. networks. These services typically allow access via smart TVs, mobile devices and web browsers.
Streaming availability may depend on location and subscription status, so checking platform listings shortly before the parade begins is recommended for uninterrupted viewing.
Tips for watching in person or at home
Watching along the parade route is free, but space fills quickly. Spectators planning to attend in person should arrive early, dress for cool morning temperatures and be prepared for road closures throughout Pasadena.
At home, tuning in a few minutes before the official start time ensures viewers catch the opening moments, including the first floats and musical performances that set the tone for the day.
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Written by Swikblog Desk
