Rose Parade campers/photo by Laura Monteros

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There are two kinds of camping along the route of the Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s day: snuggling in sleeping bags around a charcoal fire, or playing cards in cozy RV.

Not only are RV dwellers more comfortable (and warmer), they have an important role to play in pre-Rose Parade security. Since the terrorists attacks of 2001, the Pasadena Police Department has recruited RV campers to report suspicious activity along the parade route. Police department volunteers go door-to-door among the RVs to give people information on what to look for and how to report it.

This informal neighborhood watch helps to ensure that the overnight rowdiness doesn’t get out of hand and that police can respond more quickly to emergent situations. To report suspicious activity, any can call (626)744-4241. Another good thing to know: Vehicles parked within one block of the route are subject to search.

For those more inclined to roughing it, here are some tips to remember:

• Chairs, sleeping bags, and other paraphernalia can be set up on the street beginning at noon the day before the parade. No tents or sofas are allowed.
• No one under the age of 18 may stay overnight on the street without a parent or guardian. Curfew is in effect from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
• Temperatures in Pasadena can drop to below freezing on winter nights, even though midday temps may reach 70 or 80 degrees. Bundle up in layers and make sure you have a sleeping bag or plenty of blankets.
• No open fires are allowed, but you may use a small, professionally made barbeque that stands at least one foot off the ground.
• No alcohol is allowed on the parade route, so take along sparkling apple juice instead of champagne to toast the New Year.
• Don’t throw anything into the street or at passing cars. This included marshmallows (toast them instead) and tortillas.
• Keep an eye on your stuff.
• The blue line painted along the street is to remind viewers of the thin blue line keeping law and order. At 11 p.m., campers can move their gear and chairs to the blue line, but at no time during the parade is anyone allowed beyond it.

For the lowdown on parade viewing, see the article “Rose Parade advice: plan ahead”.

For more info: Pasadena Tournament of Roses