New Year’s Eve Events in Los Angeles
As the year winds down, Los Angeles lights up with a bunch of New Year’s Eve events. Whether you’re after family-friendly fireworks or theme park fun, this city has got you covered.
Fireworks for the Whole Family
One of the big highlights on New Year’s Eve in LA is the family-friendly fireworks shows. Marina del Rey puts on two amazing displays near Burton Chace Park, with shows at 9 p.m. and a grand finale at 11:59 p.m. The fun starts with a Glow Party at 7 p.m., making it a perfect night out for families. For more details, check out Secret Los Angeles.
Theme Park Extravaganzas
LA’s famous theme parks pull out all the stops for New Year’s Eve. Universal Studios Hollywood offers a midnight fireworks show that lights up the sky. The park also has themed parties in different areas, adding extra fun to your night.
Disneyland, the “Happiest Place on Earth,” joins the party with fireworks at 9 p.m. and again at 11:59 p.m. The park is decked out with holiday surprises, special events, and tasty treats. It’s a magical spot to welcome the new year with your loved ones. More info is available at Secret Los Angeles.
Knott’s Berry Farm also throws a lively New Year’s Eve bash. The park stays open late and offers music, photo ops with PEANUTS characters, holiday shows, a countdown to midnight, and a fantastic fireworks display. It’s a great choice for families looking for a fun and festive way to ring in the new year.
These events are just a glimpse of the many New Year’s Eve celebrations happening all over Los Angeles. Whether you go for the fireworks or dive into theme park fun, you’re sure to make lasting memories and kick off the new year with a bang.
Top Spots for New Year’s Eve in LA
Ready to ring in the New Year in Los Angeles? We’ve got two hot spots that promise a night to remember: Marina del Rey Fireworks and Universal Studios Hollywood.
Marina del Rey Fireworks
Marina del Rey is the place to be for jaw-dropping fireworks that light up the sky twice—once at 9 p.m. and again at midnight. You can catch these spectacular shows from various spots around the marina, including some cozy restaurants with killer harbor views.
But wait, there’s more! Starting at 7 p.m., Burton Chace Park transforms into a family-friendly “Glow Party.” Think music, entertainment, and activities that keep the fun going until midnight. And the best part? It’s free! So, bring the whole family and soak in the festive vibes (MomsLA).
Universal Studios Hollywood
If you’re looking for a bit of magic, Universal Studios Hollywood has you covered. As the clock strikes midnight, the park lights up with a stunning fireworks display that adds a sprinkle of fairy dust to your night (Secret Los Angeles).
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Universal Studios throws themed parties all over the park, creating a buzzing atmosphere. You can party it up while enjoying the park’s rides and shows. It’s like a New Year’s Eve celebration on steroids.
So, whether you’re gazing at fireworks over the marina or partying at Universal Studios, these spots offer unforgettable ways to welcome the New Year in LA. Grab your friends, family, or even that special someone, and make it a night to remember.
Unique New Year’s Eve Experiences
Looking for something special to do on New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles? Check out these cool spots that will make your night unforgettable.
Angel’s Point in Elysian Park
Want a killer view of the LA skyline and fireworks? Angel’s Point in Elysian Park is your go-to. This hidden spot gives you a stunning look at the city, perfect for snapping pics and soaking in the vibes. Heads up, parking and space are tight, so get there early. Kick back, enjoy the view, and ring in the new year like a boss.
Disneyland Festivities
Disneyland in LA is always magical, but New Year’s Eve? Next level. The park goes all out with special events and surprises. Catch two epic fireworks shows at 9 p.m. and right before midnight. The sky lights up with colors and magic, making it a night to remember. Don’t miss the special menus and holiday-themed parades. Disneyland stays open until 2 a.m. on New Year’s Eve, so you can keep the party going. Pro tip: Make reservations for the park’s restaurants—they offer some pretty sweet dining experiences.
Whether you’re gazing at the city lights from Angel’s Point or diving into the enchantment of Disneyland, these New Year’s Eve spots in LA will give you memories to last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on these awesome ways to welcome the new year.
Fun New Year’s Eve Activities
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles? You’re in for a treat! Here are two activities that will make your holiday unforgettable: the Rose Parade Viewing and the Polar Bear Plunge.
Rose Parade Viewing
The Rose Parade in Pasadena has been a crowd-pleaser since 1890. Imagine stunning floral floats, lively marching bands, and impressive equestrian outfits all in one place. If you want to start your New Year with a bang, this is the event for you.
Skip the overnight campout and head to the Norton Simon Museum around 8 am. This spot offers a fantastic view of the parade as it kicks off. You’ll get to see the floats up close and personal, capturing all the intricate details. Don’t forget your camera—these floats are Instagram gold!
Polar Bear Plunge Locations
Feeling adventurous? The Polar Bear Plunge is a must-try. This annual event invites the brave to dive into the chilly waters, around 60 degrees, on New Year’s Day. It’s a refreshing way to kick off the year and makes for some epic stories.
You can join the plunge at various spots around Los Angeles, like Venice Beach, Huntington Beach, and Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro. Dive into the ocean with a crowd of enthusiastic swimmers and start your year with a splash. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
So, as you plan your New Year’s Eve, think about checking out the Rose Parade and taking the Polar Bear Plunge. These activities will add a unique and memorable twist to your holiday celebrations in Los Angeles.
Festive New Year’s Day Events
After the New Year’s Eve buzz, the fun doesn’t stop in Los Angeles. Here are a couple of events to enjoy with your family:
Pershing Square Ice Rink
Start the New Year with some outdoor ice skating at the Holiday Ice Rink in Pershing Square, Downtown LA. This spot offers a magical skating experience right in the heart of the city. Lace up your skates and glide across the ice, making memories with your loved ones (Time Out Los Angeles).
The rink has everything you need, including skate rentals. Whether you’re a pro or a newbie, it’s a fantastic way to spend a fun day with family and friends. For more info and ticket prices, check out their official website.
Descanso Gardens Illuminations
Feel the holiday magic at Descanso Gardens with their Enchanted: Forest of Light event. This nighttime experience blends art and nature, turning the gardens into a mesmerizing wonderland. The illuminated installations, art displays, and glowing forests create a captivating vibe against the backdrop of lit-up trees and enchanting sounds (Time Out Los Angeles).
Take a stroll along the lit-up trail, soaking in the beauty of the botanical garden. This unique mix of art and nature is a perfect way to kick off the year with a sense of wonder. Visit the Descanso Gardens website for more details on tickets and event times.
These are just a couple of the festive New Year’s Day events in Los Angeles. There’s plenty more to explore. From ice skating to holiday light displays, LA offers a variety of options to make your New Year’s Day special. Check out other events like L.A. Zoo Lights or Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA to add even more excitement to your holiday season (MomsLA).
New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Los Angeles
Ready to ring in the New Year in Los Angeles? This city knows how to throw a party, and there’s something for everyone. From jaw-dropping fireworks to classic parades, LA’s got you covered. Here are two must-see events:
WalletHub’s City Rankings
WalletHub’s 2023 list ranks Los Angeles as the 7th best city to celebrate New Year’s Eve. They looked at everything from entertainment and food to costs and safety (New York Post). With its buzzing nightlife, top-notch dining, and electric vibe, LA is the place to be. Whether you’re into glitzy parties, live music, or epic fireworks, you’ll find it here.
Pasadena’s Traditional Parade
Don’t miss the Rose Parade in Pasadena, a New Year’s Day staple since 1890. This parade is a feast for the eyes with its floral floats, marching bands, and horse riders. It kicks off near the Norton Simon Museum at 8 am, giving you a front-row seat without the overnight campout (Time Out Los Angeles). Perfect for families, the Rose Parade is a magical way to start the year.
These are just a couple of the many ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles. Whether you’re into big events, unique experiences, or cozy gatherings with friends and family, LA has it all. So, get ready to welcome the New Year in style and make some unforgettable memories in the City of Angels.
New Year’s Eve Events and Activities
As the year winds down, Los Angeles is buzzing with fun ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Two standout family-friendly events are the Los Angeles Zoo Lights and Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA.
Los Angeles Zoo Lights
One of the most magical holiday events in the city is the L.A. Zoo Lights. This annual event transforms the zoo into a glowing wonderland with its “Animals Aglow” theme. Picture oversized animal-shaped lanterns lighting up the night, creating a whimsical atmosphere that both kids and adults will love.
The L.A. Zoo Lights is an immersive holiday adventure with dazzling lantern sculptures and a magical Winter Wildlands. As you stroll through the zoo, you’ll be enchanted by the vibrant colors and intricate details of the lanterns, celebrating the zoo’s natural inhabitants. It’s a delightful way to spend New Year’s Eve with the whole family.
Tickets for L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow start at $29 for adults and $18 for children on Value Weeknights. Grab your tickets online to secure your spot at this popular event (Discover Los Angeles).
Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA
For a lively New Year’s Eve celebration, head to Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA event. This family-friendly gathering offers a variety of activities and entertainment to keep everyone entertained.
At Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA, you can enjoy live music, dance performances, food vendors, and more. As the clock nears midnight, the event culminates in a countdown to the New Year, complete with a spectacular fireworks display. It’s a fantastic way to welcome the new year in a vibrant and joyful setting.
Check the event’s official website for the latest information on ticket prices and availability. Gather your loved ones and join the celebration at Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA for a memorable New Year’s Eve experience.
As you plan your New Year’s Eve festivities, consider these two family-friendly events in Los Angeles. The L.A. Zoo Lights and Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA offer unique experiences that will leave you with cherished memories as you bid farewell to the old year and embrace the new one.
Concerts and Special Events
Looking to make your New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles unforgettable? Check out these two standout events:
Pink Martini at Walt Disney Concert Hall
Want a musical adventure? Head to the Walt Disney Concert Hall for Pink Martini’s New Year’s Eve show. This band is all about mixing it up with Brazilian samba, Cuban dance beats, and Parisian café vibes. You can catch their 7pm show for an early celebration or the 10:30pm performance to ring in the New Year with style. Tickets start at $139 for the early show and $119 for the late one. Don’t miss out on this musical journey. For more info and tickets, visit the Discover Los Angeles website.
Prohibition NYE at Union Station
Step back into the Roaring Twenties at Prohibition NYE, held at the iconic Union Station. This event, celebrating its 10th year, features theatrical burlesque, live jazz, and a DJ set by Chromeo. Dance the night away with a premium open bar and soak in the lively atmosphere. General Admission tickets start at $195. Secure your spot for this unforgettable night. For more details and ticket info, visit the Discover Los Angeles website.
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles with a concert or special event is a fantastic way to make memories. Whether you’re grooving to Pink Martini at the Walt Disney Concert Hall or living it up at Prohibition NYE at Union Station, you’re in for a night to remember.
