Photos: Bundle up as the 2024 Rose Parade begins

The 135th Rose Parade began on Monday as the world ushers in the year 2024.

With its petal-filled floats, marching bands and high-stepping horses, the parade runs 5½ miles along the streets of Pasadena.

This year’s theme is “Celebrating a World of Music: The Universal Language,” a message of hope and harmony in times of war, labor strikes and partisan political fights as a contentious election year begins in the United States.

“In a world of different cultures, beliefs, hopes and dreams, one language unites us all: music,” Alex Aghajanian, president of the Tournament of Roses, said in a statement. “Sound, texture, rhythm, form, harmony and expression combine to move, calm, excite and delight the world.”

Michigan Twirler senior Zoe Dotts-Brown puts on lipstick to prepare for the 135th annual Rose Parade.

(Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

The University of Alabama Crimsonettes receive Mylar blankets to stay warm before the parade.

(Michael Blackshire / Los Angeles Times)

Jackie Ventura and Monserrat Zavala hold Emilo Grimaldo as they wait for the parade on Colorado Boulevard.