PASADENA, Calif. — After a holiday season of relentless rain in Southern California, the 122nd Rose Parade was bathed Saturday in abundant sunshine.
Clear blue skies and chilly temperatures greeted hundreds of thousands of spectators who lined Colorado Boulevard to gawk at the New Year’s Day showcase of flowery floats, marching bands and equestrians.
Many who staked out prime viewing spots on the sidewalks had to brave temperatures that dipped into the low 40s overnight. They shivered under blankets and huddled around fire pits to stay warm.
“It was cold but well worth it,” said Mark Tarango as he rolled up his sleeping bag at the start of the 5.5-mile parade route.
In all, 22 bands performed and 47 floats dazzled the crowd. Food Network star Paula Deen sat in the lead car as the grand marshal.
