The Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, is a long-standing tradition on New Year’s Day that attracts people worldwide. It is renowned for its spectacular floats, lively marching bands, and impressive equestrian groups. The parade is a truly captivating experience.
The Rose Bowl Parade, also known as America’s Biggest New Year’s Day Celebration, is an iconic event with a special place in people’s hearts. It is closely associated with the start of the New Year, just like fireworks or making hopeful resolutions. When visiting the Rose Parade for the first time, many have questions about what to expect. If you’re planning a trip to Southern California to witness this year’s parade, here are some simple tips to help you prepare for this exciting experience.
Take a Tour Package
Instead of going it alone, consider joining a guided tour for the parade. It’s easier and more complete and enjoyable. People usually camp out overnight for a good spot along the parade route. You’ll have to spend the night outside, and it gets cold. Buying Grandstand Seats also has its challenges. You must purchase your tickets early, find parking, and walk far distances to the seats. But with a Rose Parade Tour package, you can avoid all these problems. They offer the best seating, convenience and transport services to and from the parade.
Choose Your Spot
The dazzling parade stretches for an impressive five and one half miles, and with it comes an array of viewing options. If you’re eager to get up close and personal with the festivities, your best seating option is to purchase a Rose Parade Tour package. Otherwise, you would have to arrive the day before to try to get a less desireable spot not near the “Start of the Parade”! If you’d prefer a more laid-back approach, try finding yourself a spot further down the parade route.
The Beginning Is Always the Best
When going to the parade with your family and friends, you must decide where to sit. Many people prefer to sit at the “TV Corner” know as “The Start of the Parade” route in order to view the parade at it’s best. But these seats come with a premium price. These seats are in high demand, and usually reserved for dignataries, parade officials and families, float sponsors families and friends, VIP’s and Group Tour Companies. These seats are very difficult to get on an individual basis. This is the only seating on the parade route where you can view all the live entertainment.
Dress Comfortably for the Weather
Dress warmly for the Rose Parade, as the weather can be chilly, especially in the morning. To ensure comfort throughout the event, dress in layers, bring sun glasses, gloves and a small hat.
Bring Your Seating Arrangements
Bring a blanket and chair, if you plan to sit and watch the parade on your own. But you must arrive the day before to secure the best possible location. But this type of independent seating is not available near the ‘Start of the Parade”, only further down the parade route.
Choosing the Perfect Spot
To avoid the sun directly in your eyes during the parade, opt for a spot on the south side of Colorado Boulevard. This thoughtful choice will make a difference during the two-hour event.
Assistance and Information
A team of nearly 1,000 dedicated volunteers in pristine white suits and vibrant red ties stand ready to serve – The “White Suiters”. For over a century, they have been a welcomed sight along the Tournament of Roses parade route on New Year’s Day. These knowledgeable volunteer professionals offer their expertise to ensure an unforgettable experience for all. So, when you’re looking for a little extra help to make the most of your holiday celebration, look for a White Coat!
Items to Bring
Sunscreen and sunglasses: Even if it’s cold, the sun can be strong in Pasadena, especially in the morning. Slather on that sunscreen! Protect your face, ears, and neck from the sun’s burning UV rays. Don’t forget to strap on a pair of shades to shield your eyes from its damaging effects.
A hat and gloves: When temperatures dip, don a cozy hat and gloves for extra warmth. Not only will you stay toasty, but the hat will also provide a layer of protection for your head against the sun’s blazing rays.
A portable charger for your phone: You’ll likely want to take lots of pictures and videos of the Rose Parade, so it’s a good idea to bring a portable charger. It will ensure that you don’t miss a single moment of the action.
A small first-aid kit: It’s always a good idea to have a small first-aid kit on hand, especially when attending a large event like the Rose Parade. A first-aid kit should contain essential items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
The Tournament of Roses has instituted a CLEAR BAG ONLY POLICY for the Rose Parade. All items are subject to inspection by security.
Experience the Ultimate Rose Parade Adventure with A la Carte Tours!
Join us for an unforgettable journey as we dive into the heart of one of America’s most beloved traditions – the Tournament of Roses Parade. Our Rose Parade Tours offer an exclusive opportunity to witness the magic and splendor of this iconic event while creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Immerse yourself in the captivating sights and sounds of the Rose Parade, where you’ll witness a breathtaking display of floral floats, high-stepping equestrians, and spirited marching bands. As these magnificent creations glide down Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, California, you’ll be left in awe of the craftsmanship and creativity that goes into every float.
But that’s not all – our Rose Parade Tours also allows you to combine this incredible experience with the renowned Rose Bowl Game, creating a truly unique and unforgettable adventure.
Feel the energy as you join thousands of passionate fans, erupting in unified celebration and bellowing out anthems of loyalty as each of the college football’s teams appear in the Rose Bowl Parade. Revel in the moment as your favorite team takes center stage and bask in the electric atmosphere that only such a momentous occasion can offer.
To ensure you enjoy the utmost comfort and convenience during your stay, we’ve partnered with the exquisite 4-Star Sheraton Gateway Hotel – LAX. Conveniently located close to the Los Angeles International Airport, these deluxe accommodations offer quality relaxation and tranquility. With 24-hour shuttle services to and from the airport terminals, your travel experience will be seamless and stress-free, allowing you to focus on making the most of your time with us.
At A la Carte Tours, we take pride in delivering outstanding customer service and creating memorable experiences. Our Rose Parade Packages are meticulously curated to bring you the best this extraordinary event offers. From the moment you step on our tour, you’ll be treated to a seamless and luxurious experience, with every detail expertly taken care of.
Experience the ultimate extravaganza of the Rose Parade with our exclusive Rose Parade tours and packages designed to immerse you in the captivating beauty and grandeur of this iconic event. Embark on an unforgettable journey with our Rose Bowl Parade tours, where you’ll witness the perfect blend of tradition and excitement as you celebrate the beginning of a New Year in style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of a Tour Package for the Rose Parade?
Taking our guided tour is a great way to bypass the difficulties associated with trying to plan all the components on your own, and having to camp out and look for parking. Our Ultimate Signature Tour Package provides the best behind-the-scenes experiences, local sightseeing, premium seats and transportation to and from the parade, making your experience more enjoyable and hassle-free.
How do I choose the best spot to watch the Rose Parade?
If you want to plan your own Rose Parade experience, you must arrive the day before and claim a spot further down the 5 1/2 mile long parade route. Booking a Rose Parade Tour with A la Carte Tours relieves all the stress and frustration and creates a more enjoyable and stress-free holiday.
Is it better to sit at the beginning or middle of the parade route?
While many prefer seats near the beginning of the parade route, it comes with challenges. The closer you are to the “Start of the Parade”, the more expensive the seats cost. Seats in the middle of the route or further down the route allow you lower prices, but a much less enjoyable parade experience. Since all bands and performers may only be performing at the “Start of the Parade” where the television cameras are located.
What should I wear to the Rose Parade?
As the parade is always held on January 1st, dress warmly and in layers. The weather can be chilly, especially in the early morning. But will warm up quickly as the day progresses. Remember to bring a hat and gloves for extra warmth.
Should I bring my own seating arrangements?
For added convenience, if you plan to sit and watch the parade on your own from the curb, bring a blanket and chair. Otherwise, you should purchase grandstand seats for a better view.
How can I get assistance or information during the Rose Parade?
Look for the “White Suiters,” a team of knowledgeable volunteers wearing white suits and red neckties. These volunteers have been managing the event for over a century and can answer your questions and directions along the parade route. If you were diligent and booked early with A la Carte Tours, your Tour Hosts and Staff are always available and willing to answer any questions or provide assistance.
Important information to consider
It is important to note there are only 70,000 seats available along the route, and only 7,000 premium seats are at the start of the parade. Over 700,000+ guests are in attendance each year on parade day, with 90% of attendees having to negotiate for a position along the parade route starting at 12-noon on December 31st. There are NO standing room only spaces available at the start of the parade. Premium Seats are positioned at the ‘start of the parade‘ where the major networks TV cameras are located and where all the entertainment happens. Be cautious when looking at tours for the Rose Parade. Some tour companies will use term like ‘near the start of the parade‘ or ‘close to the start of the parade‘ or they may not even list the location of their seats at all in their description. If you are not at the ‘start of the parade‘ you will not have the same exciting and enjoyable experience.
The trade-off is simple: premium arrangements usually cost more than a bare-bones approach. But for travelers who prize comfort, predictability, and a polished experience, this is often the add-on that defines the trip.
A la Carte Tours has spent decades creating and perfecting their Rose Parade tours to accommodate the best elements for the Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl Game. Their curated experiences from the 3-Day/2-Night – Rose Parade Only Tour to the ever popular Ultimate 5-day/4-night Signature Tour Package offer a relaxed and well organized event that will please the entire family. With Optional Add-ons for the Rose Bowl Game, Mexico Cruises, Theme Parks, Las Vegas Getaway and Catalina Island options that will enhance your Rose Parade Holiday Experience to the next level of enjoyment.
Choose the package that lets you be present for the event, and not busy managing it from the sidelines. Book your Rose Parade tour now with A la Carte Tours by calling 800.749.9342, or book online at alacartetours.net. The Ultimate New Year’s Day holiday is waiting for you and your family.