The Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade has been a grand tradition each New Year's Day since 1890. When the parade debuted, 2,000 citizens were on hand to witness history in the making. Today, more than 1 million spectators line the parade route, while an additional
400 million people in more than 100 countries watch it on television.
The tradition began in 1890 when the Valley Hunt Club voted to stage a parade with flower-laden horse and buggies. Following the parade, young men competed in foot races and tugs of war. But it was the game of tourney of rings -- a game in which mounted horsemen, carrying 12-foot lances, tried to spear three rings hung 30 feet apart while riding at top speed -- from which the parade got its name.
The tourney of rings, coupled with the floral displays, prompted the parade's first president to say," Now we have the name we want -- The Tournament of Roses."
The Tournament of Roses Association was formed in 1895 and has been in charge of organizing the monumental event ever since. Today, the Tournament of Roses has a full-time staff of 18 and more than 900 volunteers.
In 1902, the first Rose Bowl Game was played at Tournament Park, where the University of Michigan defeated Stanford University, 49-0. In 1922, the famous Rose Bowl was built in the beautiful Arroyo Seco area of Pasadena. Each year, more than 100,000 fans jam the stadium to cheer on their favorite college football team.
Each Tournament of Roses Parade features more than 100 marching bands, equestrian units
and elaborate, colorful floats. Floats must be completely covered with flowers and floral material. An average float requires as many as 100,000 blossoms and can cost upwards of $250,000.
Pasadena
will welcome 2009 with floral pomp and circumstance as the
120th Tournament
of Roses Parade marches down Colorado Boulevard
on Thursday, January 1, 2009. The theme, "Hats Off To Entertainment," will be the
inspiration for the magnificent floats, marching bands and equestrian
units. More than 1 million people will line the streets to watch as the
Tournament of Roses Queen, Royal Court
and floats cruise the 5.5- mile parade route.
Following the parade, thousands of spectators will
flock to the Rose Bowl Stadium for the 95th Rose Bowl Game.
The Granddaddy of Them All will
feature a match up between two championship teams, showcasing the best of
collegiate football.
###
|
