Rose Parade returns after virus hiatus

A year after New Year’s Day passed without a Rose Parade due to the coronavirus pandemic, the floral spectacle celebrating the arrival of 2022 took place Saturday despite a new surge of infections due to the omicron variant.

The 133rd edition of the Pasadena tradition featured actor LeVar Burton as grand marshal, 20 marching bands, 18 equestrian units and dozens of floats reflecting the theme of “Dream. Believe. Achieve.”

After days of recordsmashing rains, there were sunny skies for the 8 a.m. start of the parade, which has an uncanny history of postcard weather.

The parade remained on track despite an explosion of infections in Los Angeles County, where daily new cases topped 27,000 on Friday. The soaring infections had already prompted Kaiser Permanente to announce that its float, “A Healthier Future,” would not have 20 “front-line medical heroes” riding or walking alongside.

“We must prioritize the health and safety of our front-line medical staff and ensure we are able to treat patients during this recent surge of COVID-19 cases caused by the omicron variant,” the health care network said.

The parade drew thousands of fans as usual along its 5½-mile route. Many camped out on sidewalks overnight, staking out their spots on New Year’s Eve. Pasadena authorities urged people to wear masks and avoid mingling with anyone outside their own groups.

Jerod Harris / Getty Images The UPS Store float “Rise, Shine & Read!” passes spectators at the 133rd Rose Parade in Pasadena. The event, canceled last year because of the pandemic, drew thousands of fans along its 5½-mile route.