ABC is set to celebrate the New Year with live coverage of the 137th Rose Parade presented by Honda on January 1, 2026, at 11 a.m. ET. This event will continue the network’s tradition of broadcasting one of the United States’ most iconic New Year’s celebrations from Pasadena, California. The two-hour telecast promises to engage audiences nationwide with its vibrant display of floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units.
Returning to host the broadcast are Kevin Negandhi and Hannah Storm, both anchors from ESPN SportsCenter. They will be joined by veteran reporter John Naber, who will provide insights and commentary throughout the parade. The ABC broadcast will be produced from the well-known “TV Corner,” located at the intersection of South Orange Grove and Colorado Boulevards, allowing viewers to experience the festivities at the heart of the parade route.
Celebrating Community and Legacy
This year’s event will feature Magic Johnson, the Los Angeles Lakers legend and Hall of Famer, as the Grand Marshal. His presence will highlight a legacy of excellence, leadership, and community service, creating a special focus on his contributions during the broadcast. The Tournament of Roses organizers plan to integrate Johnson’s role into the production, underscoring the significance of ushering in the New Year for millions of viewers.
ESPN, which has produced the Rose Parade broadcast for several years, is led by experienced producer Jack Graham. The network has introduced various enhancements to the coverage, including a new graphics package developed in collaboration with EPIC Games in 2023. These improvements continue to elevate the viewing experience, making the event even more engaging for audiences.
Transitioning to College Football
Following the parade, college football fans can look forward to the 112th Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential, scheduled to air at 4 p.m. ET on ESPN. This year’s matchup features a prestigious College Football Playoff clash between the No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers and No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide. The Rose Bowl Game is a centerpiece of the New Year’s Day festivities, attracting attention from sports enthusiasts around the globe.
The Tournament of Roses has been a hallmark of Pasadena’s New Year’s Day celebrations since 1890. This annual tradition showcases the community spirit, pageantry, and festive atmosphere unique to America’s New Year’s celebration, drawing millions of viewers worldwide.
As ABC gears up for this highly anticipated event, it reinforces its commitment to bringing viewers memorable and engaging programming that resonates with audiences across different cultures and regions.
