UPDATE: The 137th Rose Parade in Pasadena faced significant challenges as heavy rain led to a dramatic drop in attendance this New Year’s morning. Officials confirmed that crowds were noticeably lighter compared to previous years, marking a stark contrast to the robust turnout seen in 2023.
According to Pasadena spokesperson Lisa Derderian, “Can definitely say very light crowds lined the parade route overnight, and many came out right before the parade started to view the floats.” This rainfall marked the first rainy Rose Parade since 2006, catching many off guard.
The city had announced earlier this week that umbrellas would not be permitted along the parade route, allowing only ponchos or jackets. Despite the weather, a dedicated group of attendees camped out hours in advance, eager to secure prime viewing spots.
As the parade commenced, attendance in the grandstands remained sparse. Last year’s event saw crowds surpassing any since before the pandemic, making this year’s turnout particularly disappointing. The wet conditions did not deter all, but many spectators opted to stay home, resulting in a ghostly atmosphere along the route.
Moreover, the adverse weather conditions also impacted the B-2 bomber flight, which was grounded during the parade, disappointing many fans awaiting its appearance. The rare rainy conditions left musical instruments soaked and attendees bundled in ponchos, marking a day of both tradition and unexpected challenges.
As we look forward, officials will assess the impact of this year’s weather on future events and attendance trends. The Rose Parade continues to be a cherished tradition, and organizers are already considering ways to manage potential weather disruptions in the years to come.
Stay tuned for further updates on the aftermath of this year’s Rose Parade and what it means for future events.
