The 120th Rose Parade, themed Hats Off to Entertainment, lived up to its name by entertaining millions of viewers in Pasadena and around the world. The New Year’s Day festivities were led by Grand Marshal Cloris Leachman, an Oscar- and Emmy-winning actress. The opening show truly dazzled with amazing dancers, great musicians, and a tip of the hat from Honda’s 50-foot-tall robot, Asimo. Floats brought “oohs” and “aahs” from the crowds, and bands and equestrian units wowed, as always, with their impeccable talent and enthusiasm. The first-ever Viewers’ Choice Award, voted on by viewers at home, was awarded to Cal Poly Universities for their “Seaside Amusement” float.
The 95th Rose Bowl Game featured the USC Trojans, participating in their fourth consecutive Rose Bowl Game, in a traditional Big Ten versus Pac-10 match-up against the Pennsylvania State University Nittany Lions. The Trojans defeated the Nittany Lions 38-24.