Pasadena's Rose Parade kicks off on a cold morning

The Associated Press, Tuesday, January 1, 2013, 8:33am (PST)

PASADENA, Calif. (AP) — The 124th Rose Parade in Pasadena has kicked off on a chilly New Year's morning with the theme "Oh the Places You'll Go!" named in honor of the Dr. Seuss book.

Led by this year's grand marshal British primatologist Jane Goodall, the parade features 42 floats covered with flowers and plant material, 23 marching bands and 21 equestrian units from across the country. An estimated 700,000 spectators will line the streets to view the five-mile-long spectacle, which is broadcast around the world.

The die-hards staked out their spots early Monday with folding chairs, hammocks and portable barbeque grills. They brought in the new year by throwing marshmallows, shaving cream and tortillas, and then hunkered down to stay warm in sleeping bags during a particularly cold night for Southern California.