As we get closer and closer to the New Year, thousands of fans eagerly countdown to one of the most celebrated traditions in Los Angeles history: the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade.  The world-famous event first began in 1890 as members of The Valley Hunt Club created an event where neighbors could gather to watch races, jousting, polo, and tug-of-war together.  Prior to these events, a parade was orchestrated to welcome the guests, during which participants would adorn their carriages with floral decorations.  Today, the essence of the Rose Parade tradition has remained strong with the exception of a few upgrades: instead of horse-drawn carriages, audiences are treated to elaborate motorized floats embellished with gorgeous, exotic flowers, plants and natural materials.   Some of the floats now take up to a year to complete.  The festival also welcomes marching bands and performance groups from all over the nation to perform for it guests, many of whom have planned a trip to Los Angeles just for the event. 

Every year, the Tournament of Roses Grand Marshal selects a theme to inspire its participants when designing their ornate floats.  Past Grand Marshals have included George Lucas, Bill Cosby, Carol Burnett, and Regis Philbin.  This year’s Tournament of Roses welcomes Food Network celebrity and butter fanatic, Paula Deen as its Grand Marshal, and has decided on the theme: “Building Dreams, Friendships & Memories.” 

You can watch the 2011 Tournament of Roses on TV, but if you happen to be on a Los Angeles tour during the holidays, make the effort to nab a front row seat of the renowned parade!  Thousands will spend the night before camping out along the Colorado Boulevard, but you can reserve seating right now from Sharp Seating.  The seats range from $42-$85, and allow you a comfortable, convenient view to enjoy the stunning floats.