"Fresno's Own Audra McDonald Grand Marshals a Sunny 135th Rose Parade with Spectacular Floats"

The 135th Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, delighted spectators with floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units under sunny skies on New Year's Day. Broadway star Audra McDonald served as grand marshal for the event themed "Celebrating a World of Music: The Universal Language." The San Diego Zoo won the top prize for its float celebrating wildlife conservation, while other performances and a military flyover added to the festivities. The parade was briefly interrupted by peaceful pro-Palestinian protesters but continued without major incident, leading up to the Rose Bowl college football game.