In past years, I've watched the Rose Parade on TV every New Year's Day. This year, I had the pleasure of viewing the Parade in person. I found that the floats, made entirely of flowers and organic materials, are even more beautiful in person. I had a front row view of the entire parade and it was certainly one of the best travel experiences I have ever had.

If you're not familiar, the Rose Parade is a huge event that takes place every New Years Day in Pasadena. People flock from all around to view the parade and often camp out on the street hours before. The Parade is free to the public if you watch from the street, but you must pay if you want to view it from the bleachers along the parade route. In addition, another cost is parking. Thousands occupy the parade route, so it is extremely difficult to find a place. It is best to arrive early and pay a small fee to park in one of the lots or garages that provide security.

Next, you must decide what view of the parade you are after. If you don't mind standing in the back, it is possible to arrive only a few hours before. However, if you want to be in the front row, it is absolutely necessary to camp out overnight. You are allowed to occupy the streets beginning at noon the day before the parade. Reserve your spot shortly after this time. From my personal experience, I found that it is best to get a spot near portable toilets (no businesses will allow you to use their toilets) and a coffee or snack shop. Also, be sure to bring pillows, blankets, lawn chairs, and anything else to make you comfortable. If you have one, a small heater is also helpful. It gets extremely cold during the late hours of the night, but if you can endure it, you will be rewarded in the morning.

Finally, the parade arrives in the morning and you will be pleased to see the gorgeous floats right before your eyes. Enjoy yourself and take lots of pictures. My final tip is this: get a parade route map before you camp out. Pick a spot near where the parade begins. The parade is over two hours and, after spending hours on the street, you will want the parade to get to you as soon as possible!