The 136th Rose Parade rolled through the streets of Pasadena, California, on January 1st, captivating thousands of spectators with its vibrant displays and festive spirit. This year’s theme, “Best Day Ever!”, set the tone for an unforgettable celebration filled with joyful floats, lively marching bands, and exciting performances.
Thrilling Highlights of the Parade
Marching down a 5.5-mile route along Colorado Boulevard, the Rose Parade dazzled everyone with spectacular floats that were nothing short of artistic masterpieces. Some of the most exciting moments included:
- Floats representing local treasures like the San Diego Zoo and the UPS Store.
- Incredible performances from marching bands, including the talented Fresno State’s band.
- Enthusiastic participation from the Pasadena City College Tournament of Roses Honor Band, who added their musical flair to the festivities.
- A rare appearance by the United States Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard, representing the military with pride.
- Excitement soared when a Northrop Grumman B-2 stealth bomber soared overhead, thrilling the audience below.
- An acrobat entertained the crowd by performing high-flying tricks on a trampoline!
Capturing Hearts with Creative Floats
Floats at the Rose Parade are often the highlight of the event, and this year was no different. Participants poured their creativity into beautiful displays, showcasing not just their craftsmanship but also the spirit of the theme. Every inch of each float was decorated with flowers and natural materials, transforming them into colorful moving gardens. The attention to detail was astounding, making it hard to believe they were all created just for this day!
A Community Clean-Up Effort
After the festivities ended, the Pasadena Public Works Department swung into action, eager to restore the streets. The cleanup crew, made up of over 100 dedicated workers, started their shift immediately after the parade concluded. It was a massive operation! To give you an idea:
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Kilos of Trash Collected | 68 tons |
| Time Cleanup Started | 10 p.m. on January 1st |
| Restoration Completion Time | 6 a.m. on January 2nd |
| Involved Crew Members | 15 team members initially, 100 later on |
This quick yet thorough cleanup effort was crucial in keeping Pasadena beautiful and ready for the next day!
A Special Float Wins an Award
The excitement didn’t stop there! Kaiser Permanente’s float, designed to reflect health and inclusivity, won the prestigious Wrigley Legacy Award for its artistry and creativity. It featured a stunning array of flowers, fruits, and vegetables, coming together to create a vibrant vision of wellness. Eleven Kaiser Permanente members joined the float, alongside athletes from Special Olympics Southern California, showcasing the spirit of community and inclusion.
A Tradition of Celebration
The Rose Parade is not just a display of floats; it’s a beloved tradition where families and friends come together to celebrate the beginning of the New Year. The cheerful atmosphere, filled with music, laughter, and warm smiles, reminds everyone of the joys of togetherness and community spirit.
As the day came to an end, people left with memories of a spectacular event that once again proved the Rose Parade is a cherished gem of Pasadena. The excitement is already building for the next year’s event!