There are many, many unique options for the best things to do in LA on New Year's Eve. We have a list of choices for the absolute, best events in Los Angeles on New Year's Eve but first, here are some popular ideas for celebrating New Year's Eve in Los Angeles.
Attending a party or event: There are many parties and events held on New Year's Eve in Los Angeles, ranging from fancy black-tie affairs to more casual gatherings. You could consider attending a party at a local hotel, nightclub, or restaurant, or you could look for events specifically geared towards celebrating the new year, such as a New Year's Eve countdown party.
Watching fireworks: Many cities in the Los Angeles area put on fireworks displays on New Year's Eve, and these can be a fun and festive way to ring in the new year. Some popular places to watch fireworks in the Los Angeles area include the Hollywood Bowl, the Griffith Observatory, and the Santa Monica Pier.
Going to a concert or show: There are often many concerts and shows held on New Year's Eve in Los Angeles, featuring a wide range of musical acts and performances. You could check out what's happening at local venues like the Staples Center, the Hollywood Palladium, or the Hollywood Bowl to see if there are any performances that appeal to you.
Having a quiet evening at home: If you'd prefer to celebrate the new year in a more low-key way, you could consider having a quiet evening at home with friends or family. You could watch movies, play board games, or just enjoy each other's company as you ring in the new year.
Ultimately, the best thing to do for New Year's Eve in Los Angeles will depend on what you enjoy and what you're in the mood for but here's our top picks for NYE 2023 in LA.
Best Low-Key Dance Party
Dance Yourself Clean is a low-key party and concert series that originated in Seattle, Washington and has since spread to other cities around the world, including Los Angeles. The events typically feature live music, dancing, and a non-judgmental, fun, energetic atmosphere. Grab your tickets to one of the best Los Angeles dance parties before they sell out at Ticketmaster.
Best Free Party
This is the West Coast’s largest free New Year’s Eve event will also continue the historic 10th anniversary celebrations when the park’s signature 3D countdown light show is projected onto L.A.’s iconic City Hall to celebrate the arrival of 2023. The Music Center powers the event with Grammy®-nominated Cuban Funk artist Cimafunk and renowned DJ Marques Wyatt topping off the highly-anticipated New Year’s Eve celebration. Grand Park is one of the best places to visit in LA in general but it's even more special this week.
FYI: There is no alcohol permitted or sold at Grand Park.
Best Trendy Spot
Billie Eilish just threw her 21st birthday here for good reason. Ranked as one of the best hotels in Los Angeles, The EDITION is a hot spot again due to all the celebrity spottings. Tickets are hard to come by and you'll likely have to reach out to a promoter or concierge team such as Zocha Group. If visiting the trendiest nightclubs in LA is your thing then definitely check it out.
Best Hotel Party to Spend the Night
Skybar Mondrian is a one of the best rooftops in Los Angeles. It has a bar, lounge, and pool located on the top of the Mondrian Los Angeles hotel in West Hollywood. The venue is known for its stunning views of the city, as well as its chic, upscale atmosphere. For their New Year's Eve Party, they will have tickets for a 4-hour premium open bar as well as special hotel deals.
Best Spot to Make Friends
The Santa Monica NYE Pub Crawl is an event that takes place annually in Santa Monica, It's a great way to meet new people, make new friends, and spark new romance. Attendees are lead by a party guide and visit a number of different bars and pubs in the Santa Monica area, with the event often featuring live music, discounts on food and drinks, and other special offers.
Best Concert Events in LA
Spend New Year's Eve with the legendary, Grammy-winning, The Roots. Ring in 2023 at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in DTLA. Some of the best events in LA are held at this famous concert hall, so don't miss out on the last one of the year.
Best Fireworks Show
A great location for fireworks is the Marina Del Rey Fireworks New Years Eve show. It's family friendly, offers lots of options for views (Burton Chace Park or Fisherman's Village), and has one of the best firework shows in all of LA. Due to the popularity it tends to become a traffic jam after the event. Pro-tip: walk a bit past the main streets and catch a Lyft/Uber home.
Hopefully, we gave you some ideas for your New Year's Eve in Los Angeles. If you are looking for the absolute, best things to do in Los Angeles then be sure to subscribe below to the LA Today VIP list for exclusive info.