Best time to go to California

New Year's Eve 2024-2025

Discover the top five places to visit during NYE in The Golden State

Dates: December 31

New Year's Eve
New Year fireworks over San Francisco

California is well-known for its vibrant nightlife. And when it comes to the year-end celebrations, the state hits the top charts for sure. Here you'll find everything necessary for a once-in-a-lifetime New Year's Eve—from glamorous beach parties to big winter bashes in the snow-capped mountains.

Big Night San Diego

Let's start with sunny Southern California boasting countless opportunities to ring in the New Year in style. Choose America's Finest City if you feel like dancing all night long. The Big Night New Year's Eve Gala at Hilton hotel is among the most famous parties.

Gloria Molina Grand Park's NYELA Countdown

An interactive Countdown at Grand Park with 3-D digital video on the City Hall building is a treasured celebration in downtown LA. This free event gathers 50,000 visitors and is more than worthy of planning your getaway to the beautiful City of Angels. The festivities run from 8 pm through 12:30 am.

Long Beach NYE aboard The Queen Mary

Located less than a 30-minute drive from LA, Long Beach wins by a slower pace and boasts top-notch parties anyway. One of the most attractive opportunities the city presents is the NYE aboard The Queen Mary, a British ocean liner retired as a hotel. The party welcomes everyone from 8 pm to 1 am.

San Francisco NYE Fireworks

The iconic Golden Gate City is gorgeous year-round, though particularly charming on the last night of the year. Come to marvel at its vast Waterfront and Bay Bridge lit up with the most awe-inspiring NYE firework show. Nearly 200,000 spectators arrive annually to watch the display at midnight.

NYE Fireworks from Sacramento Tower Bridge

The Old Sacramento is likewise charming during NYE. Use your chance to capture dazzling fireworks against the Tower Bridge, cruise along the Sacramento River at night, and take in its flickering holiday lights. New Year’s Eve Sky Spectacular celebration starts at 9 pm and culminates at midnight.

Some incredible free activities are available alongside the upscale ticketed events. Moreover, family-friendly celebrations, including early countdowns, ensure that no one is left behind—even the youngest ones are having a Happy New Year! So plan your next NYE in California and create the memories of your lifetime.

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