LA promises an unforgettable start to 2025 with amazing New Year’s celebrations throughout the city!
The city offers perfect New Year’s Eve events that match everyone’s taste – from all-night dancing to spectacular light shows. The West Coast’s largest FREE New Year’s celebration happens at Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA. This family-friendly event features dual music stages and projects an amazing 3D countdown onto LA’s iconic City Hall. Music lovers can head to Forever Midnight at the Los Angeles Convention Center, where top DJs Tiësto, Diplo, and Duke Dumont will rock three stages.
The entire Southern California region comes alive with celebrations as 2025 draws near. LA’s diverse celebration options range from sophisticated rooftop gatherings to stunning beachfront fireworks displays. The city’s vibrant atmosphere makes it easy to find the perfect spot to welcome the new year. Let’s discover the best places to count down to midnight in the City of Angels.
Grand Park NYELA Celebration
Want an amazing way to welcome 2025 without spending too much? Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA is LA’s premier New Year’s Eve celebration.
Grand Park NYELA event overview
The West Coast’s largest free New Year’s Eve celebration comes back for its 13th year on December 31, 2025. The event takes over six city blocks in downtown LA and creates a party atmosphere that brings thousands together. NYELA has grown into LA’s favorite gathering spot for New Year’s Eve that attracts locals and visitors worldwide.
This celebration welcomes families with live music on multiple stages and delicious food options. The night ends with a stunning countdown projection on City Hall that’s now a beloved LA tradition. Previous celebrations drew an estimated 25,000 people, making it a true community celebration to welcome the new year.
Grand Park NYELA highlights
The park offers amazing entertainment options throughout:
- Two Dynamic Music Stages: The Countdown Stage sits between Broadway and Spring Street while The Get Down Stage lights up the Performance Lawn between Grand Avenue and Hill Street.
- All-Female DJ Lineup: The Get Down Stage features talented female DJs playing electronic dance music. Many performers come from Girls Make Beats, a nonprofit that helps more women become music producers.
- Global Music Performances: You’ll hear the hip-hop band Weapons of Mass Creation, Puerto Rican producer Pachyman, and Brooklyn’s afrobeat band Antibalas.
- Midnight Countdown Spectacle: A spectacular 3D light show transforms City Hall at midnight. This striking display celebrates LA’s beauty, diversity, culture, and natural landscapes while promoting environmental awareness.
- Food Truck Frenzy: You’ll find over 30 of LA’s best food trucks plus 7 snack booths ready to satisfy your hunger all night.
Grand Park NYELA location & timing
Date & Time: December 31, 2025, at 8:00 PM to January 1, 2026, at 12:30 AM
Location: Gloria Molina Grand Park 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
The celebration covers all six blocks of Grand Park. You can enter through three marked entrances:
- Hill and First Streets
- Broadway and Second Street
- Hill and Temple Streets
Grand Park NYELA ticket info
Here’s great news – NYELA is completely free to attend. You don’t need tickets to join the fun. Everyone’s welcome, including your pets.
If you drive, park at:
- Main Music Center Garage (135 N. Grand Avenue)
- Walt Disney Concert Hall Garage (111 S. Grand Avenue)
Each garage charges $10.00 per vehicle. Public transportation works better because of the large crowds.
You’ll find Gloria Molina Grand Park near:
- Civic Center/Grand Park station on Metro B Line (Red) and D Line (Purple)
- Metro’s Regional Connector stops at Grand Av Arts/Bunker Hill, Historic Broadway, or Little Tokyo/Arts District on Metro A Line (Blue) and E Line (Expo)
Metro offers free rides from 4 AM on December 31 through 3 AM on January 1, making it a smart way to travel.
Grand Park NYELA best for
NYELA works perfectly for:
- Budget-conscious celebrators: Free admission and Metro rides let you celebrate without spending much.
- Families: The alcohol-free setting and all-ages policy create a perfect spot for family celebrations.
- Music enthusiasts: Multiple stages offer different musical styles from hip-hop to afrobeat.
- Community-minded revelers: Join thousands of Angelenos in a celebration that shows off LA’s diverse culture.
- Those seeking visual spectacle: City Hall’s midnight countdown projection gives you a unique LA experience.
Rachel S. Moore, The Music Center’s president and CEO, puts it well: “Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA will bring us together in joy, as a unified community, to welcome a new year”. You’ll get an authentic Los Angeles experience that captures the city’s spirit without breaking your budget.
Note that the event happens rain or shine, but leave your umbrellas at home. The event stays alcohol-free to keep things family-friendly.
Yamashiro Hollywood NYE Party
Yamashiro Hollywood promises a royal NYE celebration with stunning panoramic views. This historic Japanese-inspired mansion becomes LA’s most extraordinary party venue on December 31st.
Yamashiro Hollywood event overview
Perched 250 feet above Hollywood Boulevard, Yamashiro (“Mountain Palace”) welcomes you to an exclusive NYE bash within its historic walls. The 1911 Hollywood hilltop mansion opens its doors to create a legendary evening that pairs luxury with breathtaking citywide views.
This architectural gem – a direct replica of a palace from Japan’s Yamashiro province near Kyoto – becomes LA’s hottest countdown spot. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world as soon as you drive up the impressive entrance. The grand exterior leads you into a majestic Japanese space where traditional design meets modern party vibes.
Yamashiro has been a Hollywood landmark that served as a film location, event space, and nightlife destination for LA’s elite over several decades. The venue creates the perfect backdrop to welcome 2025 in style on the last night of the year.
Yamashiro Hollywood highlights
The spectacular NYE celebration at Yamashiro comes with amenities that will raise your last night of the year:
- Five-Hour Premium Open Bar – Enjoy complimentary drinks from 9 PM to 2 AM
- Live DJ Performance – A professional DJ plays open format music all night with Top 40, hip hop, and house tracks
- Spectacular City Views – Take in panoramic vistas of Los Angeles from the property’s prime Hollywood Hills location
- DJ-Led Countdown – Experience an energetic countdown to midnight
- Complimentary Champagne Toast – Raise a glass as the clock strikes twelve
- Party Favors – Receive festive NYE accessories to improve your celebration
- Dessert Buffet – Access to sweet treats throughout the evening
The venue’s architecture creates a stunning backdrop for your celebration. You’ll find a beautiful courtyard garden, ballrooms with Asian flourishes, and an outdoor pool with a Buddha shrine. Each corner offers a unique view of the sparkling LA skyline – especially magical when fireworks light up the city at midnight.
Yamashiro Hollywood location & timing
Date: Tuesday, December 31, 2024 Hours: 9:00 PM – 2:00 AM PST
Location: Yamashiro Hollywood 1999 N Sycamore Ave Los Angeles, CA 90068
Yamashiro sits just above Hollywood Boulevard’s bustle yet feels like a world apart. The restaurant’s high position offers unobstructed views of the entire Los Angeles basin – making it perfect to watch New Year’s fireworks displays across the city.
Getting There: The venue offers valet parking as the only option. You won’t find self-parking, and all surrounding areas need permits. Ride-share services like Uber or Lyft make more sense given the limited parking and holiday traffic. The venue strongly suggests using designated drivers or transportation services to avoid drinking and driving.
Yamashiro Hollywood ticket info
Tickets start at $99 and go up to $312, based on package selections. Each ticket includes:
- Entry to the exclusive NYE party
- Five-hour premium open bar (9 PM-2 AM)
- Live DJ performances
- Festive NYE party favors
- Midnight champagne toast
- Access to dessert buffet
VIP upgrades and bottle service packages are great options to enhance your experience. Table Minimum packages fit different group sizes and come with reserved seating and premium service all night.
Important Notes:
- Age requirement: 21+ with valid ID required for entry
- Dress code: New Year’s Eve Festive – Casual Evening/Semi-Formal Attire
- Food service: The event does not include dinner. You should eat before arriving since this is a nightlife-style event rather than a dining experience
- All tickets are non-refundable
Yamashiro Hollywood best for
This luxurious NYE celebration is perfect for:
- View seekers – People who want to welcome the new year with panoramic views of Los Angeles and distant fireworks
- Architecture and history buffs – Anyone who loves the venue’s century-old Japanese-inspired design and Hollywood legacy
- Sophisticated party-goers – People looking for an upscale alternative to typical club scenes
- Couples seeking romance – The stunning setting creates an intimate yet festive backdrop for couples
- Friend groups – Different package options work well for groups wanting reserved spaces
Premium drinks, energetic music, and a spectacular setting make Yamashiro ideal for anyone wanting a memorable LA new years celebration. The event balances elegance with excitement – creating a sophisticated atmosphere while keeping the festive energy of December 31st alive.
The ticket prices and dress code attract a mature crowd that values quality experiences. Yamashiro offers a refined yet lively space to toast new beginnings in an exceptional setting, unlike more casual venues.
Queen Mary Fireworks & Cruise
Step aboard the iconic Queen Mary and ring in the new year with a maritime-inspired celebration that pairs historical elegance with stunning fireworks over Long Beach Harbor.
Queen Mary NYE event overview
The historic Queen Mary becomes a glamorous global adventure this New Year’s Eve. This legendary ocean liner hosts one of Long Beach’s most predicted year-end celebrations that draws inspiration from iconic destinations worldwide. You’ll experience flavors and festivities from New York City, Egypt, and France without leaving port.
This floating celebration gives you more than just a party venue – you’ll get a unique experience aboard a real piece of maritime history. The “Night Around the World” theme creates a sophisticated yet festive atmosphere throughout the ship. The Gatsby-esque party has something for everyone, from relaxed musical performances to energetic dance floors that pulse with club-like energy.
Queen Mary NYE highlights
The Queen Mary’s New Year’s Eve celebration expresses these memorable attractions:
- Live Music Everywhere: DJs and musical acts stationed throughout the ship create different atmospheres as you explore
- Casino Night: Try your luck at casino games with fake money chips (worth up to $500 in play money)
- Dueling Pianos: Enjoy interactive musical entertainment that keeps the energy high
- Champagne Toast: Raise a glass of complimentary bubbly as midnight approaches
- Midnight Fireworks: Experience a stunning fireworks display over the Pacific Ocean at the stroke of midnight
- Balloon Drop: Celebrate inside with a festive balloon release timed with the new year
The fireworks show stands out because you’ll be right underneath the display. Every explosion creates a sensory experience that’s hard to match elsewhere in LA.
Queen Mary NYE location & timing
Date & Time: Tuesday, December 31, 2025, 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Location: The Queen Mary 1126 Queens Highway Long Beach, CA 90802
The ship stays docked at Long Beach Harbor during the celebration. This waterfront spot gives you amazing views of the coastline and harbor, especially during the midnight fireworks.
The Waterfront area (100 Aquarium Way) offers excellent free public viewing spots for the fireworks display. The best views come from aboard the Queen Mary itself.
Queen Mary NYE ticket info
General admission tickets start at $165 and include:
- All on-board entertainment
- Party favors
- Complimentary champagne toast at midnight
- Access to all ship venues and dance floors
VIP tickets cost $292 and give you everything in general admission plus:
- Early access to the ship
- A lavish buffet dinner in the Grand Salon
- Exclusive fireworks viewing area
Hotel Packages: Book a stateroom directly on the Queen Mary. Special packages let you “take the elevator home” after celebrating. You won’t have to worry about transportation and can turn your night into a mini getaway.
Important Notes:
- All packages need full prepayment and are non-refundable
- Age requirement: 21+ to book
- Food and additional drinks beyond the champagne toast cost extra with general admission
Queen Mary NYE best for
The Queen Mary celebration works perfectly for:
- History enthusiasts: Few venues blend historical significance with modern celebration like this 1930s ocean liner.
- Couples: The romantic setting makes it perfect to share a New Year’s kiss under fireworks over the Pacific.
- Friends seeking variety: Multiple entertainment zones throughout the ship let friend groups experience different atmospheres in one venue.
- Overnight celebrators: The hotel package removes transportation worries and turns your celebration into a memorable staycation.
- Fireworks fans: The midnight display over Long Beach Harbor creates a spectacular visual treat from the ship’s deck.
The Queen Mary costs more than other LA options but delivers great value through its mix of entertainment, ambiance, and convenience. The ship’s 1930s charm provides a nostalgic backdrop as you welcome the new year.
Book early since this event always sells out. Dress up nicely – casual attire might feel out of place amid the ship’s elegant surroundings.
Forever Midnight EDM Festival
Dance your way into 2025 at LA’s biggest electronic music festival. Forever Midnight returns to Downtown Los Angeles with heart-pounding beats and non-stop energy.
Forever Midnight event overview
Downtown LA’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration happens at the LA Convention Center for an unforgettable night. This powerhouse event started in 2023 and quickly became the go-to spot for electronic music fans. Insomniac Events presents a high-energy festival that keeps the party going well past midnight.
The atmosphere makes this event unique. Forever Midnight turns the convention center into a dark, immersive playground filled with pulsating lights and premium sound systems. The music ranges from house and techno to underground electronic, featuring artists who push boundaries. Multiple rooms create an authentic nightclub experience in a warehouse-style setting.
Forever Midnight highlights
The 2025 edition will be bigger than ever with:
- Star-Studded Lineup: World-class DJs like Tiësto, Diplo, Duke Dumont, and Chris Lake perform on three distinctive stages
- Three Curated Stages: Each stage brings its own vibe:
- Factory 93 stage with techno legends
- Club Space Miami’s signature sound
- Take It Outside stage showcases femme, queer, and POC influencers
- Marathon Party: A full 12 hours of music from 4 PM to 4 AM – this goes way beyond your typical countdown event
- Immersive Production: State-of-the-art lighting, stunning visuals, and powerful sound systems fill the venue
The festival captures pure warehouse vibes and puts music first. You won’t see fancy decorations or themed areas. Forever Midnight creates an authentic dance music environment with incredible sound quality and lighting that matches every beat drop perfectly.
Forever Midnight location & timing
Date: Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM – 4:00 AM (12-hour event)
Location: Los Angeles Convention Center, Downtown LA
The LA Convention Center provides the ideal industrial backdrop for this electronic music celebration. The massive open spaces fit multiple stages without feeling crowded while keeping great acoustics. The downtown location makes it easy to reach but stays far enough from homes to let those sound systems really pump.
Important note: You must be 21+ with valid ID to enter.
Forever Midnight ticket info
Pick from these experience levels:
- GA Experience Pass: Gets you into Forever Midnight with access to all three stages
- VIP Elevated Experience: Adds exclusive entrances, premium viewing areas, and upgraded restrooms
- Backstage Pass: The full VIP treatment includes Elevated Experience perks plus backstage access
All tickets show “all-in pricing” – you’ll see the total cost upfront with fees included before taxes and delivery. Early purchase saves money as prices go up when earlier tiers sell out.
Extra amenities include:
- Rental lockers that work great as group meeting spots
- Premium sound and lighting at every stage
Reminder: Bring valid photo ID – this event strictly checks for 21+.
Forever Midnight best for
Forever Midnight perfectly suits:
- Electronic Music Enthusiasts: This event delivers authentic electronic music for those who find mainstream festivals too commercial
- Night Owls: The 12-hour format lets you party long after midnight
- Dance Floor Devotees: Dancing takes center stage – perfect if you want to move more than mingle on NYE
- Audiophiles: Sound systems and production match LA’s best clubs
- Friends Seeking Shared Experiences: Your group can explore different stages while staying at one amazing event
Forever Midnight stands out from other LA New Year’s options by putting music first. The event skips typical NYE extras to create a non-stop rave atmosphere. One visit explains why this two-year-old festival has become Southern California’s must-attend event for electronic music fans.
Hollywood Roosevelt Winter Wonderland
The legendary Hollywood Roosevelt transforms into a frosty paradise this New Year’s Eve. You’ll step into a striking winter wonderland at this iconic hotel that promises one of LA’s most glamorous celebrations.
Hollywood Roosevelt event overview
The historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel teams up with Maxim magazine and Teatro LA to create a magical winter wonderland experience. This upscale celebration turns the legendary hotel into a frost-covered fantasy land that keeps the classic Hollywood glamor alive.
Old Hollywood charm meets modern party elements to create a sophisticated yet exciting atmosphere. Your entrance becomes a star-studded moment with red carpet arrivals and photographers from Getty Images and other top media outlets. The breathtaking décor inside will make your night unforgettable.
You’ll find multiple themed spaces filled with music, entertainment, and perfect photo spots to capture memories of your final night of 2024.
Hollywood Roosevelt highlights
Your night will be exceptional with these standout features:
- Four Distinct Music Rooms – Each space has its own music style, vibe, and entertainment options so you can customize your experience
- Live Entertainment – Professional DJs keep the party going into the early hours of 2025
- Red Carpet Experience – Walk the media-lined red carpet like a celebrity
- Exclusive NYE Party Favors – Special items to boost your celebration
- Themed Photo Opportunities – Instagram-worthy spots throughout the venue
The winter wonderland transformation balances elegance with festivity. Striking decor complements the venue’s natural beauty and creates a magical New Year’s atmosphere.
Hollywood Roosevelt location & timing
Date and Time: December 31, 2024 at 9:00 PM to January 1, 2025 at 2:00 AM PST
Location: The Hollywood Roosevelt 7000 Hollywood Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90028
The hotel sits at a prime spot on Hollywood Boulevard, between La Brea Avenue and Highland Avenue. This central location makes it both accessible and fitting for a high-end New Year’s celebration.
Transportation Notes: Hotel guests get exclusive access to valet parking. A parking garage sits right across from the hotel, with additional paid lots starting at $10 nearby, including the Hollywood & Highland Center. The organizers recommend using Uber or Lyft to avoid any drinking and driving concerns.
Hollywood Roosevelt ticket info
Ticket prices start reasonably but go up quickly as inventory drops or the event date gets closer. Prices can double in minutes, so buying early gets you the best rates.
Important Ticket Details:
- Age Requirement: Strictly 21+ with valid US license or passport required
- Dress Code: Semi-formal or cocktail attire required (“dress to impress”)
- Sales Policy: All sales final with no refunds or exchanges permitted
Special discounted room rates let you “take the elevator home” after the party ends, which removes any transportation worries.
Hollywood Roosevelt best for
This glamorous celebration suits:
- Fashion-forward partygoers – The dress code and atmosphere appeal to people who love dressing up
- Photo enthusiasts – Themed photo spots and Instagram-worthy backdrops fill the venue
- Music lovers – Four distinct rooms with different styles mean you’ll find your perfect groove
- Hollywood history buffs – The venue has nearly a century of star-studded Tinseltown history
- Couples and groups – Various spaces work well for both intimate celebrations and larger friend gatherings
The Hollywood Roosevelt celebration hits the sweet spot between sophistication and fun. The winter wonderland theme sets a magical scene to welcome 2025 with fellow revelers who want a touch of Hollywood glamor in their New Year’s festivities.
Comparison Table
| Venue | Location | Timing | Price Range | Age Requirement | Key Features | Best For |
| Grand Park NYELA | 200 N Grand Ave, LA | 8 PM – 12:30 AM | Free | All Ages | • Two music stages• 3D countdown projection• 30+ food trucks• All-female DJ lineup | • People watching their budget• Families• Music fans• Community-minded party people |
| Yamashiro Hollywood | 1999 N Sycamore Ave, Hollywood Hills | 9 PM – 2 AM | $99-$312 | 21+ | • 5-hour premium open bar• Live DJ• Panoramic city views• Champagne toast• Dessert buffet | • People seeking views• Architecture enthusiasts• Upscale party crowd• Couples• Groups of friends |
| Queen Mary | 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach | 8 PM – 1 AM | $165-$292 | 21+ | • Live music• Casino games• Dueling pianos• Midnight fireworks• Balloon drop | • History buffs• Couples• Friends wanting variety• Late-night celebrators |
| Forever Midnight | LA Convention Center, Downtown LA | 4 PM – 4 AM | Multiple tiers (exact prices N/A) | 21+ | • Three stages• Star DJs (Tiësto, Diplo)• 12-hour party• Premium sound systems | • EDM enthusiasts• Night owls• Dance lovers• Sound quality fans |
| Hollywood Roosevelt | 7000 Hollywood Blvd | 9 PM – 2 AM | Multiple tiers (exact prices N/A) | 21+ | • Four music rooms• Red carpet entrance• Winter wonderland theme• Photo spots | • Style-conscious crowd• Photography lovers• Music enthusiasts• Hollywood history fans |
Conclusion
LA offers an amazing array of New Year’s Eve celebrations that suit every taste and budget. The options range from the free community gathering at Grand Park NYELA to the glamorous Winter Wonderland at the Hollywood Roosevelt, spanning the city’s most iconic locations.
The choices might seem overwhelming at first. In spite of that, this variety ensures you’ll find the perfect spot to welcome 2025. Grand Park covers your family-friendly fun without spending a dime with its impressive 3D light show. Yamashiro’s hilltop mansion provides panoramic views with your champagne toast. The Queen Mary in Long Beach combines maritime history with fireworks.
The 12-hour Forever Midnight festival creates paradise for dance music fans. The Hollywood Roosevelt lets fashion-forward party-goers strut the red carpet. LA’s magic on December 31st comes from how it changes into countless celebration hubs, each with its unique personality.
Prices range from free to several hundred dollars, yet each venue delivers great value through entertainment, ambiance, and location. Your priorities – budget, music style, views, or atmosphere – make the real difference.
Note that these events sell out weeks ahead. Early booking secures your spot and often saves money through early-bird pricing. On top of that, you should plan transportation ahead, especially for venues serving alcohol. Many locations recommend rideshare services, while Grand Park offers free Metro rides on New Year’s Eve.
LA’s New Year’s Eve celebrations highlight the city’s captivating nature – a mix of glamor, diversity, and exciting entertainment under the same starry sky. Pick your perfect countdown spot, gather your crew, and get ready to ring in 2025 LA-style!
Key Takeaways
Los Angeles offers diverse New Year’s Eve celebrations ranging from completely free community events to luxury experiences, ensuring every budget and preference is covered.
• Grand Park NYELA provides the best value – West Coast’s largest free NYE celebration with live music, food trucks, and spectacular 3D countdown projection on City Hall.
• Book early and plan transportation ahead – Popular venues like Queen Mary and Yamashiro sell out weeks in advance, and most recommend rideshare over driving.
• Each venue targets different audiences – From family-friendly Grand Park to 21+ electronic music marathons at Forever Midnight, matching your vibe is key.
• Premium experiences offer unique perks – Higher-priced venues like Yamashiro ($99-$312) and Queen Mary ($165-$292) include open bars, exclusive views, and VIP amenities.
• Location diversity spans the entire LA area – Celebrate downtown, in Hollywood Hills, Long Beach harbor, or convention centers, each offering distinct atmospheres and experiences.
Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly community celebration or glamorous Hollywood luxury, LA’s NYE scene delivers memorable experiences that capture the city’s vibrant spirit and diverse entertainment culture.
FAQs
Q1. What are some popular New Year’s Eve events in Los Angeles? Los Angeles offers diverse NYE celebrations, including the free Grand Park NYELA block party downtown, fireworks cruises on the Queen Mary in Long Beach, rooftop parties at venues like Yamashiro in Hollywood, and massive EDM festivals like Forever Midnight at the LA Convention Center.
Q2. Are there any family-friendly New Year’s Eve events in LA? Yes, the Grand Park NYELA celebration is an excellent family-friendly option. It’s free to attend, alcohol-free, and features live music, food trucks, and a spectacular 3D countdown projection on City Hall at midnight.
Q3. What’s the best way to get around LA on New Year’s Eve? Public transportation and rideshare services are highly recommended. Many events, like Grand Park NYELA, offer free Metro rides. For venues serving alcohol, such as Yamashiro or the Queen Mary, using Uber or Lyft is strongly encouraged to avoid drinking and driving concerns.
Q4. How early should I book tickets for New Year’s Eve events in Los Angeles? It’s advisable to book as early as possible. Popular venues like the Queen Mary and Hollywood Roosevelt often sell out weeks in advance. Early booking can also save money through early-bird pricing at many locations.
Q5. What should I wear to New Year’s Eve events in LA? Dress codes vary by venue. Grand Park NYELA is casual, while upscale venues like Yamashiro and the Hollywood Roosevelt require semi-formal or cocktail attire. Always check the specific dress code for your chosen event to ensure you’re appropriately dressed for the celebration.
