Organizers remain prepared to adjust plans if necessary because of coronavirus, By Brennon Dixson-bdixson@scng.com
As holiday events across the country post cancellations in the wake of surging coronavirus case counts, Pasadena city leaders and Tournament of Roses officials said the 2022 Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game will occur on New Year’s Day but that they are keeping watch on the COVID-19 scenario.
The reassurance comes after several notable New Year’s Eve celebrations were canceled or scaled back in recent weeks due to concerns spurred by the omicron variant spreading in communities throughout Los Angeles County.
Despite concern from leaders, including Los Angeles County Director of Public Health Barbara Ferrer, Tournament of Roses officials said Wednesday the muchanticipated New Year’s Day parade and college football bowl game still have the green light but are watching the situation as it evolves.
“At the present time, we fully expect the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl Game to be held as scheduled on New Year’s Day 2022 in beautiful Pasadena, California,” a statement from Tournament officials said. “We are aware of the rising COVID-19 infection rates, and are monitoring the situation very closely. As we continue to work with the Pasadena Public Health Department in regards to their health order, we are confident in our ability to host both the parade and game successfully, and in compliance with all the applicable government protocols needed to keep everyone safe.”
Organizers remain prepared to adjust plans if necessary, though, the statement said, because the health and well-being of parade participants and guests, “as well as that of our volunteer members, professional staff and partners, remains our number one priority.”
Pasadena city leaders echoed they also are excited for the return of the parade, game and traditional holiday festivities, but urged visitors to get their vaccinations and booster shot.
“Our strongest message is to get the booster because omicron is a concern and you need that layer of protection that takes a few weeks to be effective,” a statement said. “The city has been working in collaboration with Tournament officials to ensure all participants, ticketholders, staff and other key stakeholders know what the COVID protocols entail, so we are confident we are taking all precautions and following all directives to keep the thousands of visitors in town and our community safe.”