The annual Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game are much-anticipated New Year's Day traditions. For those eager to witness these events, numerous live streaming options are available, many of which offer free trials. This guide provides a detailed overview of broadcast times, channels, and the best platforms to ensure uninterrupted viewing of both the parade and the game, including opportunities to watch them at no initial cost.
How to Access the 2026 Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game Live
On January 1, 2026, the celebrated 137th Rose Parade, themed "The Magic in Teamwork" and featuring legendary Earvin "Magic" Johnson as Grand Marshal, will commence at 8 a.m. PT (11 a.m. ET). Spectators can catch this vibrant spectacle across a multitude of channels, including ABC, NBC, CNN (making its debut this year), FOX, KTLA, Telemundo, and Univision. Following the parade, the 112th Rose Bowl Game will kick off at 1 p.m. PT (4 p.m. ET), showcasing a thrilling collegiate football match-up between the No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers from the Big Ten conference and the No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide representing the SEC. This highly anticipated game will be broadcast live on ESPN.
For modern viewers opting for digital access, several live TV streaming services provide comprehensive coverage. DirecTV, Fubo, Sling, and Hulu + Live TV all carry the necessary channels for both events. DirecTV and Fubo offer generous five-day free trials, presenting an excellent opportunity to enjoy the festivities without an immediate subscription. Sling provides an enticing offer of half-off the first month for selected plans, with its Orange & Blue plan bundling ABC and ESPN. Additionally, Hulu + Live TV includes a three-day free trial, often packaged with Disney+ and ESPN+. For a standalone streaming experience of the parade, Peacock will also host a live stream. Furthermore, the Rose Bowl game can be streamed live via ESPN+, a perfect option for dedicated sports enthusiasts. These diverse options ensure that fans can experience the New Year's Day celebrations from virtually anywhere.
The advent of numerous streaming services, particularly those offering free trials, represents a significant evolution in how major events like the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game are consumed. This accessibility not only caters to cord-cutters but also democratizes viewership, allowing a broader audience to partake in these cherished traditions. It encourages consumers to explore different platforms, potentially leading to new content discoveries and flexible viewing habits that align with modern digital lifestyles.