Opened in 1922, the stadium is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and an unofficial landmark for viewers. There is something Rockwellian-romantic about the different hues reflecting in the background of the San Gabriel Mountains at sunset.

TV doesn’t capture the stunning images enough.

This is an old stadium that never looks or feels old. The list of iconic events hosted here is extensive, from Super Bowls to World Cup football, but for those of us who love college football, the affection for the Rose Bowl stems from its late afternoon kickoff on January 1.

The Gophers hadn’t played here since 1962, a multi-generational drought that left legions of fans clinging to a common sentiment: Please, just once.

“I told my kids if we ever make it to the Rose Bowl,” said longtime fan Bruce Olson, “I’m going to take you with me.”

Olson made the trip with his two adult sons, Benton and Peyton. The trio joined nearly 1,200 fans at a pregame party hosted by the university on the golf course at the back of the stadium. The scene was full of energy as fans enjoyed the moment.