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Magic Johnson Named Grand Marshal of 2026 Rose Parade

The choice reflects the parade theme, "The Magic in Teamwork," selected by Tournament President Mark Leavens.

Basketball Hall of Famer Earvin "Magic" Johnson speaks after he was introduced as the grand marshal for the 137th Rose Parade, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)
Basketball Hall of Famer Earvin "Magic" Johnson speaks after he was introduced as the grand marshal for the 137th Rose Parade, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)
Image
The 2026 Rose Parade on the front lawn of the Tournament House in Pasadena on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. (Photo by Trevor Stamp, Contributing Photographer)

Overview

  • Tournament of Roses President Mark Leavens announced the selection on Oct. 8 at Tournament House in Pasadena.
  • Johnson will ride the 5.5-mile route on Jan. 1, 2026, then join Rose Bowl pregame festivities as part of the College Football Playoff quarterfinal, including the coin flip.
  • An earlier 1 p.m. kickoff compresses the window for the grand marshal and officials to transition from the parade to the stadium.
  • The parade is set for 8 a.m. PT on Colorado Boulevard, with the 137th edition carrying the theme "The Magic in Teamwork."
  • Expressing gratitude and surprise, Johnson told attendees he would be "waving like crazy," and coverage highlighted his Lakers titles, MVPs, ownership stakes, and recent Presidential Medal of Freedom.