Whether It’s the pomp and spectacle, or the chance of waving at Santa Claus, there’s something about a parade that never fails to have us lined up, eagerly waiting for the next float to come along. From the Rose Bowl parade to Carnival?and some odd events in between?here’s a look at a tradition that belongs to small towns and big cities alike: parades.
don’t worry?the first 45 seconds of this video don’t prepare you for the incredible images to come. This daring spectator perched on the fire escape of a Manhattan skyscraper to watch the 2009 ticker tape parade for the Yankees. So if you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to have an aerial view of millions of New Yorkers thronging the streets?well, now you know.
It seems that Europe is awash in carnival parades?the perfect opportunity to build a float ?poking fun at world leaders.? This slideshow features some of the flattering (and not-so-flattering) caricatures of US President Barack Obama and Italy’s flamboyant prime minister, Silvio Berlusconi.
Pasadena’s Tournament of Roses is as much about the gorgeous parade floats as it is about football. Floats take a full year to build, and construction begins just days after the last parade is over. What makes this spectacle such a unique tradition is that ?every inch of every float must be covered with flowers or other natural materials, such as leaves, seeds or bark.?
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
If you’ve never stood watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade go by (or seen it on television), you may be amazed at the spectacle of Santa’s entrance. The jolly old elf is now announced by a Broadway-style song and dance number!