Story by Zoe Schlaak
Staff Writer
Photo by Oscar Walsh
Staff Photographer
The 132nd Tournament of Roses New Year’s Day Parade was cancelled on Wednesday, July 14, due to safety concerns about the coronavirus pandemic.
After discussing with the USC Keck School of Medicine, parade officials concluded that there is no plausible way to operate the parade on Jan. 1, 2021. Additionally, float preparation, which is mainly conducted by high-risk seniors, has been delayed months from its usual start time in March, further preventing the parade.
The last time the parade was called off was between 1942 and 1945 due to World War II.
Other events that tie along with the parade, including the Rose Bowl football game and the Royal court, are still tentatively scheduled to continue.
The Chief Executive of the Tournament of Roses will continue to explore alternative ways to celebrate the new year. Updates will be announced in the coming weeks.
