Tournament of Roses Begins 2025 Rose Court Selection Process

The Tournament of Roses Association began accepting applications for the 2025 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Rose Court on Thursday, Aug. 1, heralding the beginning of the selection process for a key element of Pasadena’s beloved New Year celebration.

Each member of the Rose Court will receive a $7,500 educational scholarship and serve as an ambassador for the Tournament of Roses, Pasadena, and the greater Los Angeles area. The program aims to celebrate youth leadership, academic achievement, and community involvement.

Initial interviews for the Rose Court will be held on Sept. 7 and 9 at Tournament House. Selection criteria include public speaking ability, youth leadership, academic achievement, and community and school involvement.

“We’re looking for applicants who bring diverse strengths and perspectives – whether they’re natural public speakers, youth leaders, academic stars, or involved in their community and school,” said Candy Carlson, director of communications for the Tournament of Roses. “Together, the selected Rose Court members will provide a well-rounded group of ambassadors for the Tournament of Roses.” 

The Rose Court tradition, which began in the early 1900s, is part of the larger Pasadena tradition dating back to 1890, when Valley Hunt Club members held the first Tournament of Roses, a parade of flowers followed by an afternoon of chariot races, jousting, foot races and other games. 

Being part of the Rose Court offers members valuable experiences in public speaking, community service, hands-on volunteerism, and increased self-confidence.

“Rose Court members enjoy countless benefits throughout the year and carry these valuable experiences with them for a lifetime,” Carlson added. The exact number of applicants varies each year but consistently draws a large pool of candidates.

Eligibility requirements and information about the interview process are available on  https://tournamentofroses.com/about/rose-court-applications/.