UPDATE: The annual Rose Parade took place in Pasadena on January 1, 2026, despite a torrential rainstorm that swept through the event, leaving participants and spectators alike with unforgettable memories.
Float riders, including survivors of the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires, expressed their resilience during the parade. Joy Chen, executive director of the Eaton Fire Survivors Network, shared, “After all we’ve been through this year, a torrential rainstorm felt like nothing.” She emphasized how the experience reinforced their strength and sense of community.
The California Community Foundation and Black Freedom Fund’s float, named “Rising Together,” was the highlight, winning the Fantasy Award for creativity. The float featured a vibrant phoenix surrounded by roses inscribed with the names of those lost in the fires, capturing the spirit of remembrance and hope.
As the rain poured, the emotional reaction from the crowd was palpable. “As soon as they saw our float, and us survivors, they jumped to their feet,” Chen noted. Many in the audience were moved to tears, creating a powerful moment of connection amidst the downpour.
Fellow fire survivor Andrew King added, “Between the camaraderie among everyone on the float and being seen by so many, it was a really great experience.” The sense of community was evident as riders waved their flags and shared smiles with the crowd.
Gina Clayton-Johnson, who lost her homes in the Eaton fire, described the parade as an opportunity to create new memories with her children, saying, “This parade has been the backdrop of my childhood and now a tradition I get to share with my children.”
Another float, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s “Food For Health,” celebrated its mission to serve over 500,000 people weekly through food pantries and farmers’ markets. Carlos Marroquin, one of the float riders, remarked on the unique bond formed with the audience despite the weather, stating, “It was like we were supporting each other.”
In a remarkable display of dedication, labor pioneer Dolores Huerta, aged 95, refused to let the rain deter her. “I didn’t drive here from Victorville just to go back. I’m here to support your efforts,” she said, engaging with the crowd and inspiring many.
Elsa Garcia-Chau, a heart transplant recipient and OneLegacy ambassador, reflected on her experience on the float “Treasure Every Moment Together,” stating, “It made it more memorable.” She emphasized the importance of connection, highlighting the joy of blowing kisses to parade-goers and receiving heartfelt responses in return.
Amidst the challenges of the day, the Rose Parade showcased the indomitable spirit of the Pasadena community. Princess Keiko Rakin of the Rose Court noted, “Seeing how many people still showed up despite the rain showed how much the parade and the Pasadena community mean to people.”
Riders and members of the community alike took away more than just memories; they left with a renewed sense of hope and commitment to one another. “My heart is full because I saw a lot of people out there that the rain didn’t stop,” Marroquin said. “We need that. We need to keep moving forward and don’t let anything stop us from being community.”
The 137th Rose Parade may have faced the elements, but it remained a testament to resilience, connection, and the enduring spirit of community, making New Year’s Day a truly remarkable celebration.
