Los Angeles experienced citywide festivities after the Dodgers won a thrilling seven-match World Series title. Fans worldwide joined local residents in celebration, marking the initial time in a quarter-century that a franchise has achieved back-to-back championships.
Celebration Parade Draws Massive Crowds
Los Angeles area celebrations included a downtown parade on the morning of the parade, a reserved-seating event at the team's home stadium, and spontaneous parties throughout the city.
Online footage depict countless of Los Angeles residents packing downtown streets, many displaying handmade banners and Dodger flags. The team was seen traveling proudly on a open-top bus through the crowds, hoisting the Commissioner’s trophy proudly.
“I’m already thinking about the next championship we’re going to achieve this,” Shohei Ohtani remarked through an translator.
The procession path ended at the stadium, where the team emerged to the rapper’s “Not Like Us,” with DJ Mustard spinning music and Ice Cube driving a light blue vintage Cadillac around the field.
Early Celebrations and Athlete Responses
Festivities started well before the parade, with supporters setting off fireworks in the streets of Downtown Los Angeles on Sunday night.
The World Series MVP, awarded the MVP of the championship, spoke directly about the win.
“We refuse to lose,” Yamamoto said. “I love the Dodgers. I love Los Angeles.”
Mixed Reactions and City Unity
However, the team owner was met with a less warm welcome at the rally. Video footage from the event appear to show Walter taking the stage to a mix of cheers and jeers, with jeers punctuating his address.
The championship acted as a positive moment in what has been a trying year for Los Angeles. An estimated 225,000 people attended to the championship parade last year, and according to team member Freddie Freeman, fans this year showed equal or greater support.
“It seems it’s nearly twice from last year,” he remarked. “These fans are crazy. It’s so awesome to be a involved in this.”