At a Glance
- 2026 New Year’s Eve celebrations across Southern California.
- Gloria Molina Grand Park hosts LA’s largest free NYE party.
- Queen Mary and Marina del Rey offer themed fireworks and glow parties.
- Why it matters: Get the inside scoop on the biggest free celebrations and unique events for a memorable countdown.
As the 2020s wind down, Southern California is gearing up for a festive farewell with a lineup of free and themed New Year’s Eve events that promise music, fireworks, and surprises for all ages.
Downtown Los Angeles
The city’s most anticipated free celebration takes place at Gloria Molina Grand Park, billed as “The Biggest Free New Year’s Eve Celebration on the West Coast.” The event features live music, dancing spots, puppets, food trucks, and a midnight projection that centers City Hall.
- Live music
- Dancing spots
- Puppets
- Food trucks
- Midnight projection
Long Beach’s Queen Mary
The Queen Mary, docked since 1967, hosts a masquerade soirée with fortune teller, live dance, dueling pianos, burlesque-inspired bar, and over-ocean fireworks.
- Fortune teller
- Live dance performances
- Dueling pianos
- Burlesque-inspired bar
- Over-ocean fireworks
Downtown LA’s Biltmore
The Biltmore Hotel will host a murder mystery themed event, adding intrigue to the 2026 celebrations.
Marina del Rey
A glow party and fireworks show will light up Burton Chace Park on December 31, rain or shine.
- Glow party
- Fireworks show
- Burton Chace Park
Sylmar’s Discovery Cube
Family-friendly activities include a balloon drop at midday and at 3 p.m., along with dancing, activities, and educational exhibits.
- Balloon drop (midday)
- Balloon drop (3 p.m.)
- Dancing
- Activities
- Educational exhibits
Catalina Island
The Casino Building in Avalon hosts an over-the-top NYE party with a historic balloon drop and dancing.
- Historic balloon drop
- Dancing
Buena Park
Knott’s Merry Farm New Year’s Eve Party will feature fireworks, music, and extended hours.
- Fireworks
- Music
- Extended hours
| Venue | Location | Highlights | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gloria Molina Grand Park | Downtown Los Angeles | Live music, dancing, puppets, food trucks, midnight projection | December 31 |
| Queen Mary | Long Beach | Masquerade, fortune teller, dueling pianos, fireworks | December 31 |
| Biltmore Hotel | Downtown LA | Murder mystery event | December 31 |
| Burton Chace Park | Marina del Rey | Glow party, fireworks | December 31 |
| Discovery Cube | Sylmar | Balloon drops, activities | December 31 |
| Casino Building | Avalon, Catalina Island | Balloon drop, dancing | December 31 |
| Knott’s Merry Farm | Buena Park | Fireworks, music, extended hours | December 31 |
These events showcase Southern California’s vibrant culture and offer something for every age group.
Key Takeaways
- Gloria Molina Grand Park is the largest free NYE celebration on the West Coast.
- The Queen Mary and Marina del Rey provide themed fireworks and glow parties.
- Family-friendly options include balloon drops at Discovery Cube and Casino Building.
Whether you’re drawn to a bustling city park, a historic ship, or a seaside island, Southern California’s 2026 New Year’s Eve events promise unforgettable memories for everyone.
