Los Angeles transforms into the ultimate New Year’s Eve destination when December 31 rolls around. From the West Coast’s largest free celebration at Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA to exclusive rooftop parties with premium open bars, L.A. delivers NYE options for every style and budget.
This guide covers the best New Year’s Eve events in Los Angeles, Rose Parade tips for January 1st, family-friendly activities, and insider advice on getting around. Whether you’re visiting LA for the first time or you’re a local looking for the ultimate way to ring in 2026, you’ll find everything you need here.
Make the most of your New Year’s trip to LA without the stress of navigating traffic or figuring out where to park. Our Half Day Best of LA Tour brings you to the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, Rodeo Drive, and Santa Monica Pier in one 5.5-hour experience—so you can save your energy for the New Year’s Eve parties.
Best Events to Countdown NYE in Los Angeles
Los Angeles hosts hundreds of New Year’s Eve celebrations, but these are the ones that consistently deliver. Whether you want a free family-friendly experience or an all-night dance party with a premium open bar, these events represent the best of what LA offers.
NYELA Countdown to 2026 at Gloria Molina Grand Park
The West Coast’s largest free New Year’s Eve celebration returns to Gloria Molina Grand Park. Thousands of people gather across six city blocks for live music, performances, and a midnight projection show on City Hall that you won’t see anywhere else in L.A.
The event runs from 8pm to 1am on December 31, 2025, giving you five hours of entertainment across two stages. The Countdown Stage is curated by Ceci Bastida and hosted by DJ Gingee featuring live performances from Ceci Bastida, BARDO, Ruby Ibarra, and more. The Get Down Stage brings electronic and hip-hop energy with sets from Girls Make Beats, and Ladies Of Sound’s Love Language collective.
Between the stages, the Community Block offers interactive art installations, puppetry performances, brass bands, and Afro-Brazilian rhythms. This family-friendly area gives you space to explore LA’s creative culture while younger guests enjoy hands-on activities.
More than 30 local food trucks and snack booths are available throughout the evening. You can grab everything from tacos to BBQ while you dance your way into 2026. The event is alcohol-free, keeping the vibe welcoming for families and groups of all ages.
If you’re driving, parking is available at the Music Center garage (135 N. Grand Ave) for a flat rate of $10.
Address: 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Cost: Free
Best For: Families, large groups, anyone looking for a free block party atmosphere
Want to explore more free things to do in Los Angeles during your trip? The city offers plenty of ways to experience LA without breaking the bank.
Forever Midnight at LA Convention Center
Insomniac brings its signature energy to Downtown LA with Forever Midnight, a 12-hour electronic music festival running from 4pm on December 31 to 4am on January 1. This is a full production with three stages, cutting-edge visuals, and a lineup that includes Chris Lake, Diplo, Duke Dumont, and dozens of other top-tier artists.
The immersive production transforms the LA Convention Center into a massive dance floor with lasers, LED installations, and enough bass to rattle your chest. Dedicated VIP areas and amenities are available.
General admission starts around $135 with VIP and backstage passes available at a higher rate.
Address: 1201 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Cost: $135+ (21+ only)
Universal Studios Hollywood EVE
Universal Studios extends its hours until 2am on December 31, turning the entire park into one giant New Year’s Eve bash. Your regular theme park ticket gets you access to select rides and attractions during the day, then transitions into a park-wide celebration starting at 9pm.
Multiple party areas throughout the park feature live DJs, dancing, and photo ops. Drinks are available for purchase at bars scattered across the venue. The night culminates with a spectacular fireworks show at midnight that lights up the Hollywood Hills.
This works perfectly if you want to maximize your day—ride the attractions with shorter-than-usual lines, grab dinner at CityWalk, then party until midnight.
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Cost: Theme park admission (varies)
Best for: Families, theme park fans, anyone who wants rides and a New Year’s party in one ticket
Marina del Rey Fireworks Show
Marina del Rey launches two separate fireworks displays—one at 9pm for families with young kids, and the main show at midnight. Both shows reflect off the harbor water, creating a stunning visual effect you can see from nearly anywhere along the marina.
Burton Chace Park hosts a free family-friendly “glow party” from 7pm to midnight with activities for kids. If you want a waterfront restaurant view, several venues along the marina offer special New Year’s Eve dining experiences, though these require reservations and come with premium pricing.
The smartest move? Find a public spot along the water and enjoy both fireworks shows for free.
Address: Burton Chace Park, 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Cost: Free
Best for: Families with young children, couples looking for a romantic evening, anyone who wants spectacular fireworks without the crowds
Rooftop Parties and Hotel Celebrations to Ring in the New Year
You want sweeping skyline views with your midnight toast. LA’s rooftop venues and luxury hotels deliver that. These celebrations pair cocktails with panoramic city lights and world-class entertainment.
Skybar at Mondrian Los Angeles
Skybar transforms into one of LA’s most glamorous NYE destinations. The iconic West Hollywood rooftop sits high above Sunset Strip with views across the city.
The party runs 8 PM-2 AM with a 4-hour premium open bar and midnight champagne toast. The pool becomes a heated, tented dance floor where you’ll ring in 2026 to live DJ sets. Cocktail attire required.
Tickets start around $135. Book early—this consistently sells out.
Hollywood Roosevelt and Sunset Strip
The Hollywood Roosevelt hosts Maxim’s Black & White Masquerade Ball, turning the historic hotel into a winter wonderland. Multiple rooms of music and entertainment mean you can explore different vibes throughout the night.
The party features live DJs, professional photographers, themed photo ops, and a grand midnight celebration. Semi-formal or cocktail attire.
Tickets start at $75. You can also book a hotel room package that includes two party tickets and priority entry.
Down the street, W Hollywood’s NYElectric party takes over the WET Deck and Rooftop Lounge with a 5-hour premium open bar and panoramic views from Hollywood & Vine.
Downtown LA Hotel Block Parties
Many downtown hotels go big for NYE with multiple venues in LA’s tallest buildings.
The Biltmore hosts LA NOIR, a 1920s jazz celebration with live big bands, dancers, and period cocktails in the Crystal Ballroom. Think flapper dresses and dapper suits.
InterContinental LA Downtown offers several options. Dine at Spire 73 on the 73rd floor (the highest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere) or La Boucherie steakhouse on the 71st floor. Both feature prix fixe menus, champagne toasts, and 360-degree city views.
Level 8 at Moxy Hotel throws a multi-room party with open bar, passed appetizers, and entertainment from 8 PM-midnight.
Most downtown celebrations pair upscale dining with midnight festivities. Book restaurant reservations months ahead.
Daytime Activities Before the Midnight Countdown
You need something to do before the party starts. Spend December 31st exploring LA’s most iconic spots. These daytime activities set the perfect stage for your evening celebration.
See LA’s Icons with a Guided Hollywood Bus Tour
The smartest move? Book a daytime tour that covers all the highlights in one efficient trip. You’ll see everything without dealing with parking, traffic, or navigation headaches.
Our Half Day Best of LA Tour runs 5.5 hours and hits Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Boulevard, Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, and Santa Monica Pier. You get three extended stops to explore, plus lunch at the historic Farmers Market. Tours depart at 10 AM and 11:30 AM from Hollywood or Santa Monica.
Want to see celebrity homes too? The Hollywood, Beverly Hills, & Hollywood, Beverly Hills, & Celebrity Homes Open Air Tour takes you through the Hollywood Hills, Sunset Strip, and past homes of Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, and more. It runs 2-3.5 hours depending on your departure location.
Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre
The Walk of Fame stretches 15 blocks along Hollywood Boulevard. You can see 2,700+ stars embedded in the sidewalk, each honoring entertainment legends.
Start at the TCL Chinese Theatre (6925 Hollywood Blvd) where you’ll find celebrity handprints and footprints in the forecourt. Marilyn Monroe, John Wayne, and hundreds more left their mark here.
The best stretch runs from Highland Avenue to Vine Street. You’ll pass the Dolby Theatre (home of the Oscars), the Hollywood Roosevelt, and countless photo opportunities.
Arrive before noon to beat crowds. Street parking costs $2-4 per hour, or use the Hollywood & Highland parking garage.
Griffith Observatory for Sunset Views
Griffith Observatory sits 1,134 feet above sea level with unobstructed views of the Hollywood Sign, downtown LA, and the Pacific Ocean. On clear December days, you can see all the way to Catalina Island.
The observatory opens at noon. Arrive by 4 PM to catch the sunset around 5 PM (December 31st). The golden hour light makes for spectacular photos of the city and the Hollywood Sign.
Admission is free. The grounds, telescopes, and most exhibits cost nothing. Only the planetarium shows require tickets ($7).
Parking fills fast and costs $10 per hour. Consider taking a rideshare or joining a tour that includes Griffith Observatory as a stop.
Located at 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027.
Rodeo Drive Holiday Shopping
Rodeo Drive delivers the Beverly Hills experience you’ve seen in movies. This three-block stretch features Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and every other luxury brand you can name.
Window shopping costs nothing and makes for great photos. The palm-lined street and luxury storefronts provide that classic Beverly Hills backdrop.
Most stores open 10 AM-6 PM on December 31st (some close early for NYE). Even if you’re not buying, you can walk through Tiffany & Co. or browse Hermès just for the experience.
Stop by the Beverly Hills Sign at the corner of Santa Monica Boulevard and Beverly Drive for a quick photo op. It’s the most Instagrammed spot in the city.
Free 2-hour parking available in city lots on Beverly Drive and Canon Drive.
Rose Parade Guide for January 1st
The Tournament of Roses Parade happens every New Year’s Day morning in Pasadena. If you’re staying in LA for January 1st, this iconic event is worth the early wake-up call.
What to Expect and Where to Watch
The 137th Rose Parade steps off at 8 AM on January 1, 2026. The 5.5-mile route runs along Colorado Boulevard from Green Street to Villa Street, showcasing elaborate floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units.
Over 700,000 spectators line the street. The parade takes about two hours to pass any given point.
Free viewing spots fill up fast. Serious parade fans camp out overnight starting December 31st evening (Pasadena allows it). Arrive by 6 AM on parade day if you want a decent free spot along Colorado Boulevard.
The parade also airs live on NBC, ABC, Hallmark Channel, and KTLA starting at 8 AM PT. Many LA hotels host viewing parties with breakfast.
Getting There and Making a Day of It
Transportation: Don’t drive. Parking restrictions start at midnight on December 31st along the entire route.
Metro Gold Line runs directly to Pasadena. Stations at Memorial Park, Lake, Allen, and Sierra Madre Villa put you within walking distance of the parade route. Service starts early on New Year’s Day.
Park-and-ride lots in Pasadena fill by 6 AM. The Rose Bowl parking lot offers shuttle service starting at 5 AM ($20-40 per person).
After the Parade: Head to Old Pasadena for brunch. The historic downtown area (Colorado Boulevard west of Paseo) features dozens of restaurants, most opening by 10 AM on January 1st.
The Rose Bowl Game kicks off at 2 PM or 5 PM (time varies yearly) at Rose Bowl Stadium, just two miles from the parade route.
Family-Friendly New Years Activities
Los Angeles offers plenty of ways to celebrate New Year’s without late nights or crowded party scenes. If you’re traveling with kids or simply want a more relaxed start to the year, these options keep things festive and manageable.
A Hollywood Bus Tour to Celebrate New Year’s Eve
If you’re looking for a family-friendly way to experience Los Angeles on New Year’s Eve without crowds, late nights, or long waits, our guided LA sightseeing tours are a great option!
Our tours run as usual on December 31 and offers an easy way to see LA’s most famous sights while everyone stays comfortable. Kids can enjoy spotting landmarks they recognize from movies and TV, while parents get a relaxed overview of the city without worrying about traffic, parking, or navigating unfamiliar routes.
Ice Skating at Pershing Square
Ice skating at Pershing Square has become a classic winter activity in downtown Los Angeles. The outdoor rink stays open through early January and offers a fun holiday atmosphere surrounded by city lights.
Skating sessions are available throughout the day and evening, so you can choose a time that fits your schedule. Rentals are available on-site, and the location makes it easy to pair skating with dinner or sightseeing nearby.
Early Countdown Options for Kids
Several family-friendly venues around LA host early countdowns designed for kids who won’t make it until the clock strikes midnight. These celebrations often include daytime parties, balloon drops, music, and simple activities timed to an earlier “New Year” moment.
Popular spots include museums, community centers, and indoor play spaces. These events sell out quickly, so checking schedules and reserving tickets ahead of time is key.
Make the Most of Your New Year’s Trip to Los Angeles
New Year’s in Los Angeles gives you more options than many other cities. You can celebrate with a crowd, keep things family-friendly, or take a relaxed approach that still lets you see the highlights. From the Rose Parade to downtown celebrations and coastal views, a little planning helps you experience more and stress less during one of the busiest weeks of the year.
If your goal is to see LA’s most iconic neighborhoods without worrying about traffic, parking, or route planning, our guided sightseeing tours are the easiest ways to do it. Our tours operate on both December 31 and January 1, making it simple to fit sightseeing into your New Year’s plans while staying comfortable and on schedule.
Book your Hollywood Bus Tour today and experience the best of LA this New Year!
