Pasadena is set to crown its 2027 Rose Queen on Tuesday, a tradition marking the official leadership for the upcoming Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game. The 108th Rose Queen will be selected from seven candidates representing Pasadena-area schools during a public ceremony at the Tournament House.
The event is scheduled for 2 p.m. on the front steps of Tournament House, located at 391 S. Orange Grove Blvd. Tournament of Roses President Terry Madigan will make the announcement and place the traditional Mikimoto crown upon the new queen. Organizers expect approximately 200 people to attend the event, including former Rose Queens, members of the 2027 Rose Court, and Mary Rutte Wallace, the 1945 Rose Queen, who is noted as the oldest living Rose Queen.
The seven young women vying for the title are Evita Bridge of Mayfield Senior School, Tessa Choi of La Cañada High School, Daniela Guzman of Arcadia High School, Irene Maddox of Eagle Rock High School, Maria Teresa McDonald of Thurgood Marshall Secondary School, Elizabeth Rweyemamu of Polytechnic School, and Lucy Wendling of San Marino High School.
These seven individuals were previously announced as members of the Rose Court on September 28. Their selection came after a rigorous process where they were chosen from a group of 28 finalists. According to organizers, the Tournament of Roses’ Queen & Court Committee evaluated candidates based on several key criteria, including academic achievement, their involvement in school and community activities, public speaking ability, and demonstrated youth leadership.
Upon the court's initial announcement, Tournament of Roses President Terry Madigan commented on the role of these young women. He stated that they would carry a message of hope, joy, and endless possibilities that is central to Pasadena's New Year's Day celebrations. Madigan also highlighted how New Year’s Day in Pasadena has historically created lasting memories for many generations globally.
Each member of the Rose Court receives a $7,500 academic scholarship, an investment in their continued education. Beyond financial support, the young women also participate in personal-development programs. These programs are designed to enhance essential skills such as public speaking, presentation techniques, self-confidence, and etiquette, preparing them for their public roles and future endeavors.
Throughout their tenure, the Rose Queen and her court will serve as ambassadors for the Tournament of Roses. This role involves participating in various community events, engaging in volunteer activities, and making numerous public appearances in the months leading up to New Year’s Day. Their service culminates on January 1st, when the 2027 Rose Court will ride along Colorado Boulevard in the 138th Rose Parade. Following the parade, they will attend the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the 113th Rose Bowl Game.
The tradition of crowning a Rose Queen dates back to 1905, making this year's coronation a continuation of a more than century-old Pasadena custom.
