A Guide to the Best of Southern California : RITUALS : Parking in Front of the Tube

Just because everyone loves a parade doesn’t mean you have to be on the sidelines to enjoy this year’s Tournament of Roses extravaganza.

Even couch potatoes can enjoy the spectacle. But if you plan to celebrate with champagne on New Year’s Eve, you might want to choose the station that suits your needs--commerical-free programming means, of course, no bathroom breaks--now. That way, you won’t have to make any tough decisions on Jan. 1.

Here’s the lineup:

* Channel 2, KCBS: Live coverage (with commercials) from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Hosts: Joan Van Ark and Ted Shackelford.

* Channel 4, KNBC: Live coverage (with commercials) from 8 to 10 a.m. Hosts: Marsha Warfield and Joe Garagiola.

* Channel 5, KTLA: Commercial-free parade coverage from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Hosts: Bob Eubanks and Stephanie Edwards.

* Channel 7, KABC: Live coverage (with commercials) from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Hosts: Gary Collins and Beth Ruyak.

* Channel 11, KTTV: Commercial-free parade coverage from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Hosts: Bill Welsh, Sarah Purcell and Marc Summers.

But before tuning in, round up some munchies. Candy canes from the tree will do in a pinch. So will left over soda pop--check cans for cigarette butts before swigging--from the big bash. If the cupboards are bare, your nearby 7-Eleven or major supermarket should be open--24 hours.

You’ll need a few other things to set the mood. Bring in your lawn chairs and sit as far away from the tube as possible. Flip over the sofa for added viewing obstruction. Switch on the air-conditioner and wear gloves and a muffler. Spray floral-scented deodorizer.

Oh, one more suggestion: If you’re still suffering from an all-nighter, tape it and go back to bed.