Whether you’re shaking off the champagne or diving headfirst into fresh traditions, New Year’s Day in L.A. is anything but sleepy. The sun is shining, the floats are blooming, and the city is brimming with ways to start the year with a little more sparkle. Here are ten ways to kick off 2026 in true SoCal style.
Rose Parade
Location: Pasadena
California’s most iconic New Year’s Day tradition, the Rose Parade, rolls down Colorado Boulevard starting at 8 a.m. Expect extravagant floral floats, marching bands, and horseback riders—all set against Pasadena’s sunlit streets. Pro tip: head east on the route for easier viewing without the overnight campout.
Floatfest
Location: Pasadena
If 8 a.m. feels ambitious, stroll through Floatfest instead. From January 1–3, the post-parade float showcase lines Sierra Madre and Washington Boulevards, letting you see the stunning flower-covered creations up close—without leaving your coffee behind.
Polar Bear Plunge
Location: Huntington Beach & San Pedro
Nothing says “new year, new you” like sprinting into 60-degree surf. Whether you dive in at Huntington’s Surf City Splash or Cabrillo Beach’s traditional plunge, it’s a chilly but unforgettable way to wash off the last year.
Resolutions at Union Station
Location: Downtown LA
This KCRW-backed music fest picks up where NYE leaves off. With DJs like Âme and Colyn spinning melodic house sets from 4 p.m. to midnight, it’s a party with purpose—set in Union Station’s historic halls and paired with immersive visuals.
Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square
Location: Downtown LA
Lace up your skates and take a spin beneath the city skyline. This beloved rink in Pershing Square runs daily through January 11, offering skates, skyline views, and just enough winter magic—even without the snow.
Enchanted: Forest of Light
Location: La Cañada Flintridge
Descanso Gardens transforms into a whimsical, glowing wonderland through January 4. Walk through illuminated forests on New Year’s Day, interactive installations, and a model railroad lit up with miniature versions of the garden’s best displays.
Holidays Made Here
Location: Burbank
TV buffs and Stars Hollow fans will love this Warner Bros. Studio Tour overlay, where “Gilmore Girls” sets come to life. Sip coffee at Luke’s Diner, see new re-creations, and enjoy a special 25th anniversary light show—New Year’s Day included.
Ice at Santa Monica
Location: Santa Monica
This 8,000-square-foot rink by the beach is open daily through January 19. It’s the perfect excuse to get outdoors, glide along with friends, or book a fire pit for extra vibes just steps from the Pacific.
L.A. Zoo Lights
Location: Griffith Park
Stay after dark to explore the L.A. Zoo’s vibrant lantern displays featuring glowing animals from Southeast Asia and Africa. Walk among luminous butterflies, mirrored shells, and glowing swings in this after-hours light spectacular.
L.A. Kings Holiday Ice
Location: L.A. Live, Downtown LA
Skate around a dazzling Christmas tree on New Year’s Day, while music and LED shows light up the L.A. Live plaza. Tickets are only available on-site—first come, first skate!