UPDATE: Despite a torrential downpour, the **137th Rose Parade** in **Pasadena, California**, on **January 1, 2026**, brought together fire survivors and community members in a powerful display of resilience and unity. The **“Rising Together” float**, representing the **California Community Foundation** and the **Black Freedom Fund**, captivated the crowd as it rolled down **Colorado Boulevard**.
The float, adorned with a phoenix and roses commemorating fire victims, won the prestigious **Fantasy Award** for its imaginative design. **Joy Chen**, executive director of the **Eaton Fire Survivors Network**, expressed her awe at the overwhelming support from the crowd, stating, “After all we’ve been through this year, a torrential rainstorm felt like nothing. It was a reminder that we are still here.”
As the float glided past, the rain could not dampen the spirits of the riders. **Andrew King**, also an Eaton fire survivor, shared his emotional experience: “Waving the ‘Altadena’ flag, feeling that connection with the crowd was truly special.” The camaraderie among the riders and the visible support from spectators created a memorable atmosphere that resonated with everyone involved.
The rain, which began just as the floats entered the parade, transformed the event into a heartwarming testament to community spirit. **Carlos Marroquin**, riding on the **AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s “Food for Health” float**, noted, “The crowd showed up despite the weather. It felt like we were all supporting each other.” His float highlights a program serving **over 500,000 people weekly** through food pantries and farmers’ markets nationwide.
A particularly moving moment came from **Dolores Huerta**, the 95-year-old labor leader, who refused to leave the float despite the downpour. “I didn’t drive here from Victorville just to go back. I’m here to support your efforts,” she declared as she waved to the crowd, demonstrating an inspiring commitment to her community.
For many participants, the parade served as a healing experience. **Gina Clayton-Johnson**, who lost two family homes in the Eaton fire, emphasized the importance of creating new memories. “This parade has been the backdrop of my childhood, and now it’s a tradition I get to share with my children,” she said.
Riders like **Elsa Garcia-Chau**, a heart transplant recipient and advocate for organ donation, reflected on the connections made during the parade. “I blew kisses to the crowd and felt that beautiful exchange,” she said, emphasizing the emotional impact of the day. “It’s all part of the human experience—being in the rain and still feeling joy.”
The **UPS Store’s** float, “Sharing Skills for Success,” not only showcased a giant animatronic fish but also won the **Director’s Trophy** for artistic design, adding to the festivities despite the weather challenges. **Princess Keiko Rakin** of the **Tournament of Roses Royal Court** remarked on the crowd’s dedication, stating, “Seeing how many people showed up despite the rain really showed how much this parade means to the community.”
As the parade concluded, the sense of unity and resilience resonated deeply with all involved. Participants emphasized the importance of community support during difficult times, a theme echoed by many riders and spectators alike.
LOOKING AHEAD: The emotional connections forged during this year’s Rose Parade will undoubtedly carry into the new year, inspiring continued community engagement in the face of adversity. As communities rally together, the spirit of perseverance shines brightly, reminding everyone that even in the rain, hope and connection endure.
This year’s parade will be remembered not just for its floats, but for the heartwarming stories of resilience shared by those who have faced unimaginable challenges. The community spirit witnessed on that rainy New Year’s Day will leave a lasting impact well into the future.
