Natalie Flores, 2023 Queen of the Doo Dah Parade (Photo – Doo Dah Parade)
Natalie Flores was selected by the judges at the Doo Dah tryouts over several other contestants vying for the crown.
By News Desk
Offering up an original rendition of “Colors of the Wind” from the film Pocahontas, Natalie Flores wowed the judges and won the crown of Queen of the Doo Dah Parade. Her mother, Minerva, a retired professional singer, joined her in a tribute to the mother/daughter heritage of Arizona and Mexican roots, regaling the crowd with “Viva Mexico.”
Wearing a cowboy hat trimmed with a beaded band and tie-dyed leggings, Natalie stated that she is a devoted Dead Head; her fluttering butterfly wings represented her motto: “Fly high, soar, and don’t be afraid of collaboration and being creative. We have to tread lightly and love each other.”
Other hopefuls vying for the crown entertained the judges with original songs, dance routines (and not-so-routines), poetry, personal statements, and high theatrics.
Queen Natalie’s crown was created by Doo Dah Preservation co-founder Veronica Andrade and was presented by Anne Nowlin of the 2021 Doo Dah Queen Altadena Twirlers. Live music by MAA ended the day’s events.
“Queen Natalie is living proof that you can have fun, spread joy, and love your community. Everything about her expresses the spirit of the Pasadena Doo Dah Parade. We couldn’t be happier!”
said Tom Coston, a producer of the Pasadena Doo Dah Parade.
Natalie Flores, while taking care of her family and pets, also founded the nonprofit Nourish LA, which works to fight hunger, prevent food waste, and cultivate community. “My ambition is to put so much pressure on all food suppliers to not let any bit of food go to waste. Food should not be wasted. People should not go hungry.” Nourish LA connects with local bakers, restaurants, community gardens, farms, and grocery stores, helping to feed over 1,000 people every weekend. Nourish LA also gives away seedlings and teaches community gardening, and organizes clothing drives.
Queen Natalie will float down Colorado Boulevard in Old Pasadena on November 19, 2023, waving to her many subjects along the way!
What is the time of the Doo Dah Parade and where is the route?
What is the time of the Doo Dah Parade on October 19th and where can I find the route? I have t been for years and might go.
The route will be released shortly from the organizers. We will post it as soon as we find out.