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Rose Bowl Issues Announcement Amid California Wildfires

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Wadleigh | Last updated Jan 9, 2025 3:19 PM ET

Just eight days ago, the No. 8 seed Ohio State Buckeyes defeated the No. 1 Oregon Ducks, 41-21, in the Rose Bowl to advance to the College Football Playoff semifinals.

Now, much of Los Angeles and the surrounding areas are feeling the impacts of the California wildfires that have caused widespread devastation this week. The fires began in the Pacific Palisades area, and as of Thursday afternoon, at least five people have died and more than 180,000 have been forced to evacuate, per the Associated Press.

On Wednesday, an evacuation warning was issued that includes the iconic Rose Bowl stadium, per Thomas Goldkamp of On3.

As the fire continued to sweep through the Los Angeles area, the Rose Bowl officials released an announcement on X on Thursday.

"Due to the Eaton Wildfire, the Rose Bowl Stadium is currently being used for emergency response efforts by fire and police departments of the City of Pasadena and other regional agencies, therefore restricting entry and exit to the area," the statement read. "Due to these operations, this Sunday's Rose Bowl Flea Market is canceled. Please avoid the area and prioritize your safety during this time.

"Our hearts go out to all of those who have been impacted by this ongoing tragedy."

Important update regarding this Sunday’s Rose Bowl Flea Market pic.twitter.com/kd13vSfIvR
— Rose Bowl Stadium (@RoseBowlStadium) January 9, 2025

Fans sent their prayers and thoughts to all those who are affected.

"This is not good peeps!! Stay safe out there. Praying for everyone impacted by the fires," one fan said.

"Wow, if the fire touches the rose bowl, would be extremely unfortunate. So many memories there. Prayers for all those impacted by the fires," another said.

"Man, prayers up," said another.

New evacuation warning in Pasadena, this time butted up against Eagle Rock and includes the Rose Bowl. pic.twitter.com/2eh3Y5emvw
— Joey Scott (@joeyneverjoe) January 8, 2025

"I pray for everyone in LA," said another.

"Tell me where I need to be and give me a hose! Gotta save the Granddaddy of Them All!" one fan said.

"Los Angeles, protect the rose bowl at all costs, please," wrote another.

The Rose Bowl was completed in 1922, so it has been a staple in Pasadena for more than 100 years. The stadium hosted the bowl game for the first time on Jan. 1, 1923.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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