New Year’s Day would not be complete without watching The Rose Parade!

Each New Year’s Day, the world focuses its attention on Pasadena, home of the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game. The Tournament of Roses has come a long way since its origin in the winter of 1890. The Rose Parade’s elaborate floats now feature high-tech computerized animation and exotic natural materials from around the world. With needing nearly a year to complete, the construction of the floats is no small undertaking.

This year the 122nd Rose Parade themed “Building Dreams, Friendships & Memories”, will take place on Saturday, January 1, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. (PST) featuring spirited marching bands from throughout the nation, majestic floral floats, and high-stepping equestrian units.

There are several ways to enjoy the parade:

Volunteer to decorate a float – It’s surprisingly hard work, but definitely a great time.  And on New Year’s morning, you have a sense of ownership when you spot the float you worked on and can say that you contributed to its overall beauty.

Take a sneak peak – Get a backstage glimpse of the floral floats in their final stages of preparation at three different locations.  See a variety of fruit, seeds, bark, grasses and of course, flowers being applied to the floats by experienced professionals as well as hard working volunteers.

And of course, be a spectator – Whether curbside or from the comfort of your own couch, the grandeur and pageantry of the Rose Parade is not to be missed.

Click HERE for information on volunteering, tickets, parking, and other pertinent information.