What's happening on New Year's Day in SoCal?

Jan 1 blocks
Photo credit Getty Images

Happy New Year! If you’re looking for iconic traditions and low-key ways to ease into 2026, there’s plenty happening around Southern California today.

Tournament of Roses Parade

Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: Orange Grove Ave. & Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA
Summary:
America’s New Year Celebration returns to Pasadena with the iconic Tournament of Roses Parade. The 5½-mile route along Colorado Boulevard features floral-covered floats, marching bands, equestrian units, and Tournament entries — all built entirely from natural materials. The parade is powered by thousands of volunteer hours from the Tournament of Roses “White Suiters,” keeping a tradition alive that dates back more than a century.
More Info:
https://tournamentofroses.com/about/about-rose-parade/#about

New Year’s Day Block Party – S. Anderson Street

Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Where Monsters Dream, 609 S. Anderson St., Los Angeles, CA
Summary:
Kick off the new year with a neighborhood-style block party in downtown L.A. The event features open art studios, cars, music, food, tea, and fashion, offering a laid-back way to explore local creativity and connect with the community.
More Info:
https://www.wheremonstersdream.com/event-details/new-years-day-block-party

New Year’s Day Pottery Class — Make What You Want

Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Location: L.A. Cornell Building, Downtown Los Angeles
Summary:
Start the year creatively with a hands-on pottery class designed for beginners. Participants can hand-build a custom ceramic cup, bowl, or planter in a private studio inside a historic loft building. All materials and tools are included, and finished pieces are glazed and ready for pickup in two to three weeks.
More Info:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-years-day-pottery-class-make-what-you-want-tickets-1974530651331

Angel City Foosball Tournament

Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Angel City Brewery & Public House, Los Angeles
Summary:
Angel City Brewery hosts a New Year’s Day foosball tournament for those looking to mix competition with craft beer. Sign-ups begin at 7:00 p.m., with games kicking off at 7:30 p.m. Check Angel City Foosball for tournament details.
More Info:
https://angelcitybrewery.com/events/list/page/2/

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