Roses, Unicycles, and Community: A Portland Tradition in Bloom

Every June, Portland comes alive with petals, pageantry, and pride. The Portland Rose Festival—a beloved tradition since 1907—celebrates not just the city’s nickname, the “City of Roses,” but the heart of the community that’s grown alongside it.

The main Grand Floral Parade is world-renowned, but for many of us locals, it’s the Junior Rose Parade that holds a special place in our hearts. I still remember the thrill of riding through the streets of Northeast Portland with my elementary school’s unicycle club, grinning from ear to ear as we wobbled our way past cheering neighbors and waving families. There’s something about the joy of that parade that sticks with you—it’s not about perfection, it’s about showing up, supporting one another, and celebrating the creativity and spirit of Portland’s youth.

The Junior Parade, first held in 1936, is the oldest and largest children’s parade in the country. It’s a testament to how deeply Portland invests in its young people—and in traditions that bring us together.

This season also reminds me of the beauty and symbolism of Portland’s International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park, a space blooming with over 10,000 roses from around the world. Originally established during WWI to preserve European hybrid roses, today it’s a fragrant, free, and peaceful place to walk, reflect, and admire the variety and vibrancy of what can grow when nurtured with care.

From marching bands to bike brigades, clowns to court princesses, the Rose Festival and its many events are reminders that community is built through participation, pride, and joy—and sometimes, a good wobble on a unicycle.

This year, whether you’re watching the floats or just stopping to smell the roses, I hope you’ll take a moment to reflect on what makes Portland home: the people, the stories, and the traditions we pass along. 

If you are looking for your next home in the Portland area, let’s connect. I would love to hear what kind of community you are looking to be a part of. 

Rachel Jarvis

503-998-6406