Organizers eyeing return of Rose Bowl Game, Rose Parade for Jan. 1, 2022
PASADENA, Calif. - Promising news for both college football fans and the city of Pasadena as organizers are pushing for the return of a century-old tradition.
Officials with the Tournament of Roses announced on Wednesday that they are "actively planning for the return" of both the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl.
"As we move forward with our plans to bring hope and optimism to the world, public health and safety remain our top priority. The evolving nature of the pandemic requires flexibility, ongoing adjustments, and mitigation measures to be incorporated into our planned activities. We expect to announce more specific details on the Rose Parade and associated events as they become available," said Bob Miller, President of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association, in a press release.
David Eads, the Executive Director and CEO of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association, said the association was able to make the announcement following the completion of a study.
"We did commission a study to look at the feasibility and the safety of hosting the Rose Parade for New Years Day and the results of the study have led us to this announcement, that we believe we'll be in a position to host the parade. There will be modifications that we'll need to make as we continue to plan throughout the year up to January 1st due to lingering effects of the Covid pandemic," he said.
Organizers canceled the parade in January 2021 and the game was moved to Texas due to a surge in COVID-19 cases across Southern California.
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Eads said the theme will be "Dream, Believe, Achieve" along with other elements.
"Our theme for last year [2021] was going to be Dream, Believe, Achieve and it really focused around the importance of education. We've expanded the theme a little bit. It'll still be the same theme rolling over for the 2022 parade, but it's going to be expanded a little bit and focus not just on education but also a celebration of perseverance and strength with what we've gone through with the pandemic. It'll honor scientists and science, first responders, health professionals, essential workers. It'll really be a celebration of all those people who helped us get through this pandemic," said Eads.
Eads said the parade is a century-old tradition in Pasadena, and they're looking forward to its return.
"We know the Rose Parade means so much to people here in Southern California, obviously to the citizens of Pasadena, our home, and we look forward to bringing all of the cheer of the new year," he said.
Those interested in volunteering for the festivities or learning more about the parade or the big game can click here for more information.
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