UPDATE: The Tournament of Roses is stepping up to support wildfire recovery just days after its jubilant Rose Parade on January 1, 2025. The devastating Eaton and Palisades wildfires claimed at least 31 lives, destroyed thousands of homes, and left many in the community reeling.
The Tournament of Roses, which saw 48 staff members and volunteers personally affected by the fires, is leading efforts to aid recovery in Pasadena and surrounding areas. “It was a really quick pivot from a joyous time with the 2025 Rose Parade to something of such mass tragedy,” said Reese Rosental Saporito, a marketing assistant and survivor of the fires.
Just days after the parade, when the community celebrated under the theme “Best Day Ever,” residents faced a heart-wrenching reality. Saporito, who evacuated her home in Altadena, described the destruction, stating, “My house is still standing, but everyone else on my street is gone.” The emotional weight of the tragedy has transformed this year’s parade, now themed “The Magic in Teamwork,” into a powerful symbol of resilience and hope.
Candy Carlson, the Tournament’s director of communications, also suffered the loss of her home in Altadena. “It was the most significant, tragic thing that’s happened in my life,” she shared. Carlson expressed gratitude for the support she received from colleagues and the community, stating, “They were the first to come toward me with, how can I help?”
In response to the disaster, the Tournament has organized clothing donation drives and established a fund to assist those affected, including its own members. “This year is especially relevant to the people who have gone through so much,” said Mark Leavens, president of the Tournament of Roses.
As the community grapples with the aftermath, the parade serves as a rallying point. “What the fires really did for me personally is make me realize how deeply ingrained the spirit of Altadena is,” said Saporito, reflecting on her family’s long ties to the area. “I hope this can be a point of joy, happiness, and spirit for people to set the year off in a positive light.”
The upcoming parade will not only honor the lives lost but also celebrate the collective strength of the community. “It’s our joy to bring the parade to Pasadena,” Carlson stated, emphasizing the importance of uplifting those affected by the fires.
The Tournament of Roses aims to showcase not just the beauty of the floats but also the unity and perseverance of those rebuilding their lives. As preparations continue, organizers hope to instill a sense of hope and recovery. “While we want to pay tribute to those lives that were lost, we also want to look forward and show the resilience that our community has displayed,” Leavens added.
As the world watches, the Tournament of Roses stands as a beacon of hope for Pasadena, embodying the spirit of teamwork and recovery in the face of tragedy. The parade is set to unfold as a celebration of life, unity, and the power of community support.
