by Julia Pierrepont III
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The 93rd Hollywood Christmas Parade returned to the streets here on Sunday with a festive "Ho Ho Ho," where Chinese cultural elements were among its most eye-catching highlights.
Stretching three miles (about 4.8 km) along Hollywood Boulevard, the nationally televised parade once again transformed downtown Los Angeles into a lively corridor of holiday cheer. Throngs of spectators -- many of them families who arrived hours early -- filled the sidewalks to enjoy a beloved seasonal tradition.
Some 5,000 participants from diverse communities brought colorful floats, marching bands, musical performances, giant balloons, and classic movie cars to the boulevard. There were also some Hollywood stars. Among these highlights, Chinese cultural elements became unexpected scene-stealers -- three-story panda balloons bobbing above the crowd, and a festive float from the local Chinese community also added to the vibrant scene.
Fifty Chinese lion and dragon dancers brought dynamic energy to the parade route, weaving and leaping along the boulevard to the delight of spectators. They were accompanied by Chinese martial artists and performers in brightly colored traditional costumes.
"It's great to see so many colorful Chinese performers," Los Angeles resident Jerome W. told Xinhua. "It's a nice new tradition and my kids love them too."
A black convertible sponsored by the China National Tourist Office in Los Angeles drew attention as it cruised down the parade route.
"Nihao China is the national image of China's international tourism," the host said on a TV show. "It represents a warm and open invitation to the world: to explore China's rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, modern cities, and authentic local stories."
Hollywood actor Luke Wilson, now sporting blonde hair, served as this year's grand marshal. Wilson is widely recognized for his comedic roles in films such as "Legally Blonde," "Old School," "Idiocracy" and "The Royal Tenenbaums."
"You can't beat giving toys to kids," Wilson told Xinhua.
Actor Anthony Anderson was named "Humanitarian of the Year" for his support of charitable causes, including the Anthony Anderson Celebrity Golf Classic. He expressed gratitude for the honor and for the long-running parade that brings communities together during the holiday season.
"It's such an honor to be celebrated like this and to celebrate everyone else who's come together at this parade for the holidays," Anderson told the press.
This year's parade also emphasized giving back. Organizers collected toys and donations to support families in need, spotlighting additional organizations dedicated to assisting underprivileged communities and reinforcing the message of unity and generosity. ■