UPDATE: The 137th Rose Parade in Pasadena witnessed a powerful display of resilience as fire survivors rode in the “Rising Together” float on January 1, 2025. Despite a torrential downpour, survivors celebrated their journey and sense of community in a heartwarming procession down Colorado Boulevard.
Joy Chen, executive director of the Eaton Fire Survivors Network, shared her emotional experience: “After all we’ve been through this year, a torrential rainstorm felt like nothing. If anything, it was a reminder that we are still here.” The float, created by the California Community Foundation and Black Freedom Fund, won the Fantasy Award for its imaginative design featuring a phoenix rising from the ashes, surrounded by roses honoring lost loved ones.
As the float made its way down the parade route, Chen noted that the real spectacle was not the rain, but the overwhelming support from the crowd. “As soon as they saw our float and us survivors, they jumped to their feet. Some burst into tears. That made me burst into tears too,” she said.
Fellow survivor Andrew King echoed Chen’s sentiments, highlighting the unity and connection felt among riders and spectators alike. “Between the camaraderie among everyone on the float and the feeling of being seen by so many, it was a really great experience,” he remarked.
The rain did not dampen spirits; instead, it intensified the emotional connections formed during the parade. Gina Clayton-Johnson, who lost two family homes in the Eaton fire, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to create new memories with her children amidst the backdrop of a cherished tradition.
On the AIDS Healthcare Foundation float, Carlos Marroquin celebrated the organization’s vital work serving over 500,000 people weekly. He described the moment when the rain began: “When it started raining hard, we were already going down the slope, and you just felt that connection between us and the crowd.” Marroquin also honored labor pioneer Dolores Huerta, who, at 95 years old, insisted on riding despite the weather. “She didn’t drive here from Victorville just to go back. I’m here to support your efforts,” he recalled her saying.
Elsa Garcia-Chau, a heart transplant recipient and OneLegacy ambassador, reflected on her experience as deeply human and transformative. “It’s a celebration, one big jolt of ‘Wow!’ Seeing the little kids and the grandmas… it makes me think, this is the human experience,” she stated, emphasizing the shared joy of the parade despite the rain.
The UPS Store float, “Sharing Skills for Success,” not only captured the Director’s Trophy for artistic design but also set a Guinness World Record for the largest animatronic fish. Junior Achievement representative Lonnie Melendrez expressed how the experience would resonate with him for years to come, inspiring future generations.
Princesses from the Tournament of Roses Royal Court also shared their joy at the support from the community. “Seeing how many people still showed up despite the rain really showed how much the parade and the Pasadena community mean to people,” said Princess Keiko Rakin.
For Rose Queen Serena Guo, the most memorable aspect of the parade was the individual connections made with attendees. “Even though we were a little higher up from the road, it still felt like I was making eye contact and a brief personal connection with each person I was waving to,” she said.
As the rain poured, the spirit of the Rose Parade shone brightly, reminding all participants of the strength found in community and resilience. The outpouring of love and support on this rainy New Year’s Day left an indelible mark on the hearts of all involved.
What’s Next: As the community reflects on this year’s unique Rose Parade experience, the stories of courage and togetherness will undoubtedly resonate as a beacon of hope moving into the new year.
