Most recently we attended a celebration honoring the partnership between Medieval Times and the Tournament of the Roses. Medieval Times have been equestrian participants for more than 25 years. The Royal Court, along with Rose Parade Officials, were invited to tour the Buena Park Castle, attend a reception, as well as stay and enjoy the dinner show.

Photo Courtesy of Medieval Times.

Our Q&A with Rose Parade Officials:

We met with Ellen Swagerty, Equestrian Chair for the Pasadena Tournament of the Roses, and learned that it was her first time at Medieval Times. She was excited and was most looking forward to seeing the beautiful costumes, horsemanship, and gorgeous horses.

“Medieval Times are crowd pleasers! This year we have them positioned right behind Queen of Court. They’re wonderful partners, and they have been so generous with everything that they do that we can’t say enough about them. They’re absolutely wonderful!”

Rich Chinen, President and Chairman of the Board of Tournament of Roses, resides in Pasadena and have been to Medieval Times before. He also talks about their partnership, history, and traditions.

“It has been a wonderful relationship. I started with the Tournament of Roses in 1989. Medieval Times started the year before (in 1988). I’ve been a member for 25 years and this will be my 26th parade. You think of the long history we’ve had together. This is our 126th Tournament of the Roses. We really rely on the long history and traditions of our partners, and I think this is one of them.”

Q: What’s your favorite part of the Medieval Times Show?

A: “My favorite part of the show is the excitement of the audience – How everybody gets so excited and so competitive. Whether you’re for the Red Knight or Green Knight – it’s just a lot of fun. It’s almost like you’re battling with a different section of the arena. You really get behind your Knight.”

Q: What got you started with Tournament of Roses?

A: “Excitement of the parade. I loved college football. I grew up in Hawaii. It was so fun being able to see all the volunteer spirit puts Pasadena on the map. That’s the reason why. This is something that contributes to the City of Pasadena and all of Southern California better than anything else.”

Q: Are their any big surprises at the parade that we can look forward to this year?

A: “Well none that I can tell you about.” (We all laughed.)

** (End of Interview) **
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After the reception, we all joined the Knights in the arena and enjoyed the tournament dinner show!

On the Menu!

The Medieval Times’ menu is designed to be eaten with your hands! Dragons blood (tomato soup), Baby Dragon (chicken), BBQ Rib, Potato Wedges, Garlic Butter Toast, and warm apple turnover for dessert!

The Royal Court at Medieval Times. Photo courtesy of Medieval Times.