Tournament Expands Scope of Theme for 2022 Rose Parade

Tournament of Roses officials said Wednesday they are actively planning for a return of the Rose Parade on Jan. 1, 2022, following the cancellation of this year’s event due to the COVID-19 pandemic, only the fourth time the event has been scrubbed in 130 years.

The organization said it is also planning for the return of the Rose Bowl Game, which was moved this year to Texas due to restrictions that prevented fans from attending the event.

“As we move forward with our plans to bring hope and optimism to the world, public health and safety remain our top priority,” according to Tournament of Roses Association President Bob Miller. “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.”

The 2022 parade will adopt the theme that had been planned for this year’s event, “Dream. Believe. Achieve.” But the theme will be expanded beyond its original focus on education to celebrate the perseverance of health care professionals, first responders and essential workers during the pandemic.

“We look forward to working with the City of Pasadena and our other valued partners throughout the year as we prepare for the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl Game in Pasadena on January 1, 2022,” Miller said.

The statement did not mention the lawsuit filed in February by the Tournament against the city of Pasadena. 

On Tuesday, the city asked a court to dismiss the suit.

In its motions, the city characterized the Tournament’s actions as being motivated by money and claimed the intent behind the lawsuit was to allow Tournament officials to auction the Rose Bowl Game off the highest bidder.

In the lawsuit, the Tournament of Roses asked for the right to hold the game anywhere in the United States in the event of a force majeure (unforeseen circumstances).

A judge will rule on the motions on April 2.

The Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl Game are scheduled to be held in Pasadena on Jan. 1, 2022.