The famous Rose Parade in Pasadena is set to proceed despite an unusual New Year’s Eve storm hitting Southern California. Volunteers have tirelessly decorated the floats, and as the parade approaches, these vibrant creations are making their way to Pasadena, even amidst the rain.
Mark Cook, a Covina resident, expressed his excitement, stating, “It’s like being at the parade without having to be at the parade. And we still get to enjoy the rain.” Many parade-goers have braced for the weather with umbrellas and ponchos, showcasing their dedication as they camp out for prime viewing locations. Eric Farr from Pomona noted, “This is a family tradition. We’ve been doing it for over 10 years… we do this every year, rain or shine.”
While the rain has inevitably dampened attendance, it hasn’t extinguished the festive spirit. More attendees have sought refuge in covered seating along Colorado Boulevard than those who have opted for front-row spots, indicating that while the storm presents challenges, it hasn’t deterred the enthusiasm completely. Pasadena authorities are ensuring compliance with regulations prohibiting tents and pop-ups along the route, a move that reflects the logistics needed to maintain safety during this event. After a two-decade dry spell, the rain presents a rare challenge for the Rose Parade, last witnessed in 2006.
The rain has prompted organizers to cover delicate floral details on the floats created by the Phoenix Decorating Company, which produced 14 floats for this year’s Tournament of Roses. Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin emphasized the importance of safety, stating that the parade relies on real-time weather updates from the National Weather Service to navigate the potentially hazardous conditions.
Despite the elements, festivities are alive as RVs and campers provide a cozy alternative for some visitors. Riverside resident Stacie Ontko remarked, “We have all the perks so it’s the best ever, we have a blast. It’s the best way to ring in the new year.”
The Rose Parade will commence at 8 a.m. on January 1, promising to be a memorable affair, rain or shine. Viewers can catch the live coverage on ABC7, an event that attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators in person, with millions more watching from across the country.