Photos: First round of 2027 Rose Court interviews at Pasadena’s Tournament House brings hope, smiles and poise

Applicants for the 2027 Rose Court descended on the Tournament House Saturday, Sept. 5, for a first round of interviews.

They are all vying for a chance to grace Colorado Boulevard on Rose Parade Day as the Tournament’s high-profile ambassadors – a role seven lucky people will ultimately get.

Starting at 10 a.m. applicants began the month-long selection process that will culminate in the members of the Rose Court being announced on Monday, Sept. 28.

Applicants selected to continue by the Queen and Court Committee will take part in multiple rounds of interviews leading to a group of 25 finalists. Those finalists will attend the announcement ceremony at the end of the month at the Tournament House.

“The Rose Court has been a treasured tradition for generations,” a Tournament of Roses statement read. “It gives participants a chance to connect with their communities, give back in meaningful ways and build confidence through experiences they will remember for life.”

During the first round, each applicant was asked a question by the committee made up of 10 volunteer members and given 15 seconds to answer. According to the Tournament of Roses, the committee looks for public speaking ability, youth leadership, academic achievement and community and school involvement.

Each member of the court will receive a $7,500 educational scholarship, serve as an ambassador of the Tournament of Roses at a number of community events and will ride in the 138th Rose Parade on Friday, Jan. 1, 2027.

Applications opened in August with eligibility based on living and attending school within the Pasadena Area Community College District or one of seven additional zip codes in Eagle Rock, Highland Park, San Gabriel and Alhambra (90032, 90041, 90042, 91775, 91776, 91801 and 91803).

In addition, applicants displaced by the Eaton fire who no longer reside within the geographic boundaries were still eligible to apply if they attended school within the boundaries.

After the Rose Court is announced later this month, the Rose Queen will be revealed on Tuesday, Oct. 27.

The theme of the 2027 Rose Parade will be “Welcome.”

For information visit, tournamentofroses.com.