Tournament of Roses to Crown 108th Queen October 27
The coronation will take place at Tournament House in Pasadena for the upcoming 2027 Rose Court.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Awards
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On October 27, 2026, the Tournament of Roses will crown the 108th Rose Queen at a ceremony held at Tournament House. The event marks a milestone for the organization as it prepares for the 138th Rose Parade.
Why it matters
The annual selection process highlights a long-standing Pasadena tradition that provides academic support to local high school students. This year's coronation features a special appearance by the oldest living Rose Queen, Mary Rutte Wallace, who reigned in 1945.
Each member of the seven-person Rose Court receives a $7,500 academic scholarship for their participation. The official Mikimoto crown worn by the queen is valued at $400,000.
The players
Mary Rutte Wallace
She served as the 1945 Rose Queen and is currently recognized as the oldest living individual to have held the title.
Tournament of Roses
This organization is responsible for hosting the annual Rose Parade and managing the selection of the Rose Court in Pasadena.
The details
Candidates undergo a rigorous selection process, receiving a formal wardrobe and specialized training before the queen is named. The 2027 Rose Court consists of seven high school seniors chosen to represent the Tournament of Roses.
Timeline
January 4, 1945: Mary Rutte Wallace christened the USS Fillmore.
October 27, 2026: The 108th Rose Queen coronation ceremony takes place.
January 1, 2027: The 138th Rose Parade will be held.
Culture Shift
This year's ceremony honors the legacy of the 1945 Rose Queen, bridging the gap between historical traditions and modern celebrations. The event marks a continuation of the festivities that were notably interrupted by the 1945 cancellation of the Rose Parade.
Residents should anticipate increased traffic and crowds near Tournament House during the coronation event. Those planning to attend the Rose Parade on January 1 can prepare for typical holiday transit adjustments along the Colorado Boulevard route.
The takeaway
The event serves as a community staple that balances historical legacy with support for the academic futures of local students. Interested residents can track the court's official appearances leading up to the New Year's Day parade.
What happens next
The 2027 Rose Queen and her court are scheduled to make their public debut during the 138th Rose Parade on January 1, 2027.
Further reading
Find more details on local traditions by visiting the Awards section.
More information
View event details and participant information on the Tournament of Roses official website.
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