Gabby Giffords installed as Grand Marshal of Rose Parade – Orange County Register

Gabby Giffords, the former Arizona congresswoman and gun control advocate who suffered serious injuries in a mass shooting outside a grocery store in her home state, is the grand marshal for the 2023 Rose Parade, officials announced Thursday, Oct. 13.

Giffords will serve as an ambassador for this year’s celebrations before enjoying a royal chariot ride down Colorado Boulevard at the 134th Rose Parade.

The announcement was made on Thursday, October 13, on the steps of the famous Tournament House with dozens in attendance to witness the ceremony.

She follows the 2021 selection of Lavar Burton and other vocal greats like Chaka Khan who toured the parade route in 2019.

She now finds herself where few others in history have gone – leader of the Rose Parade.

“Turning The Corner” will be the theme of the 2023 Rose Parade, announced Amy Wainscott, President and CEO of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association.

“The 2023 theme celebrates the turning point,” Wainscott said. “Whether that corner is actual or figurative, like the unlimited potential that each new year brings – we all relish the opportunity for a fresh start.” Wainscott added, “To turn a corner is to rise – alone or with family, friends and the community. As we turn the corner together this year, we share the hope, beauty and joy of what 2023 will bring.”

The election of the Rose Queen on Tuesday, October 25, will be the last major ceremony before the Rose Parade returns to the streets of Pasadena on January 2, as New Year’s Day falls on a Sunday this year.

This is breaking news; Watch out for updates.