Rose Parade marches on despite COVID-19 surge

A year after New Year's Day passed without a Rose Parade due to the coronavirus pandemic, marching bands and floral floats took to the streets again to celebrate the arrival of 2022 despite a new surge of infections due to the omicron variant.

The 133rd edition of the Pasadena, California, tradition on Saturday featured actor LeVar Burton as grand marshal, 20 bands, 18 equestrian units and dozens of floats reflecting the theme of “Dream. Believe. Achieve.” The crowd was smaller than in previous years, but the parade still drew thousands of fans along its 5.5-mile route. 

Many camped out on sidewalks overnight, staking out their spots in the afternoon on New Year's Eve. Many attendees wore face coverings, as did Rose Parade Queen Nadia Chung and her court.