15 Things to do on New Year’s Eve in Southern California

Southern California is where people will want to be for New Year’s Eve. There will be parties for all the different types of people looking to celebrate the end of the year. A full list of Southern California New Year’s Eve events would take pages and pages to get through. Instead, the top 15 parties to attend will make things easier for everyone. Celebrate the end of 2016 and the beginning of 2017 in any style you want. Everything is possible in Southern California on New Year’s Eve.

Orange County is a place filled with people from many different walks of life and at different points in life. Everyone from families to singles to couples and more will be looking for something to do on New Year’s Eve. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly party or a black-tie event, Orange County has it all. Here are some great options for fun while waiting for the new year.

First Night in Fullerton | Harbor Blvd, Pomona Ave, and Wilshire Ave. Downtown Fullerton

Fullerton is hosting a block party like no other, and it’s open to all ages. There will be four stages of live entertainment, rides, carnival games, food, and at midnight there will be fireworks. The event starts at 7 p.m. and goes until midnight. The best part is, the event is free.

Orange County Block Party in Newport Beach | 4647 Macarthur Boulevard Newport Beach

While the Fullerton block party is for all ages, this one is strictly for the grown-ups. The age limit is 21 and over, and tickets range from $29 to $79. This block party is a bit different than we’re familiar with, being that the party is indoors. General admission tickets will get you access to two clubs, and VIP tickets will get you access to all three clubs. The clubs include Bosscat Kitchen, TEN, and Envy Lounge, all in Newport Beach.

NYE at The Loft or Studio at The Montage Laguna Beach | Montage Laguna Beach

Another party that is open to all ages can be found at both of the Montage restaurants in Laguna Beach. This event is for those of us who love food. There will be a 5-course chef’s tasting menu. Live music, dancing, and more will lead up to a midnight toast. This event is on the pricier side, coming in at $200 per adult, $60 per child for the Loft and $475 per person at Studio.

Lemon Drop New Year’s Eve in Irvine | Hilton Irvine Hotel Ballroom

While most events will differ between all ages, 18 and up, or 21 and up, the Lemon Drop in Irvine takes it even higher. This event is for people age 40 and up only, with tickets starting at $115, $50 open bar pass, and $10 self-parking. There will be a buffet dinner from 8 p.m. until 10 p.m., then dessert and coffee. Guests of the party get a special rate on rooms for the night, and the champagne toast is free.

New Year’s Eve at Knott’s Berry Farm | Buena Park

Celebrate the new year with thrills and laughs at Knott’s Berry Farm. The event is family-friendly, with tickets starting at $44. The event will host live music, DJs, a comedy show and a magic show.

Medieval Times New Year’s Eve Extravaganza | 7662 Beach Blvd. Buena Park

A medieval new year is not like what you’re familiar with, but you will love the experience. As expected at Medieval Times, there will be a jousting match, followed by a live DJ, dancing, midnight toast and balloon drop. Where they take things to the next level is the continental breakfast served after. Dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. and tickets are $70.95 for adults and $36.95 for kids under 12.

The Disneyland Resort | Disneyland

You can’t talk about any holiday in Southern California without mentioning the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim. First, at the PCH Grill inside the Paradise Pier Hotel, there will be a character celebration. The buffet will be serving dinner from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. with characters roaming around until 1 a.m. Inside the parks, Disneyland will have two firework shows and extended hours. California Adventure has yet to announce their activities, but extended hours can be expected.

New Year’s Eve Voyage on The Queen Mary | The Queen Mary

The Queen Mary has hosted New Year’s Eve parties for years, each time with a different theme. This year the theme is classic movies. Tickets cost $99 or $199 for VIP. Once onboard, you’ll have access to all of the party rooms and fireworks. If you want to enjoy dinner, reservations are recommended and are not included in the ticket price. This event is for people ages 21 and up only.

A Midnight Kiss At Wyndham OC | 3350 Avenue of The Arts, Costa Mesa

If you’re looking for a romantic night out the Wyndham OC in Costa Mesa is where you’ll want to be. There will be three party rooms and an open bar. At midnight there will be a champagne toast and kissing your date is encouraged. The party starts at 9 p.m. until 2 a.m. with tickets starting at $89 up to $140.

White Wonderland NYE | 30812 La Mer, Laguna Niguel

Laguna Niguel can celebrate the new year in a winter wonderland of frozen ponds and snow. The party is for people ages 21 and up. The entire event is ice-themed with icy special effects, and good energy. Doors open at 8 p.m. and close at 2 a.m. with tickets starting at only $20.

The Black and White Party | Aqua Lounge Newport Beach

If you’re looking for a fancier way to ring in the new year, then the Aqua Lounge has the event you want. The Black and White party in Newport Beach has surprise party favors, dancing, a live DJ, premium cocktails and all starting at $100.

Kids’ New Year’s Eve at Legoland | Legoland Dr., Carlsbad

New Year’s comes early at Legoland in Carlsbad California for their annual Kids’ New Year’s Eve party. The event is included in general admission ticket pricing. Instead of a giant ball of lights, Legoland has a Lego brick that falls 22 feet during the countdown which starts at 6 p.m.

Gatsby New Year’s Eve Cruise | Grape St. Pier 1800 N. Harbor Dr.

A classier experience in San Diego takes you back to the Roaring ’20’s with Gatsby. The event takes place on the High Spirits Yacht and boarding starts at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $209 per person and include entrance, a 4-hour cruise, private, reserved table, boarding glass of champagne, 4-course gourmet dinner, live jazz music, and much more. While a dress code is not enforced, it’s suggested to dress up in 1920’s era clothes.

New Year’s Eve Futuristic Bash | Sheraton in Carlsbad

Another family-friendly event in Carlsbad is the New Year’s Eve Futuristic Bash. The party starts at 6:30 p.m. and goes until 12:30 p.m. There will be prizes for best-dressed family (futuristic clothing), a Kid’s Club Party Zone, food, drinks, and a champagne toast for adults.

Porto Vista Hotel’s 2017 Galactic New Year’s Eve Bash | Porto Vista Hotel in San Diego

After you’ve seen the new Star Wars movie, head over to Porto Vista Hotel for a galactic party you won’t soon forget. The rooftop of the hotel will be transformed with Star Wars theming, and guests are encouraged to get into the act. Dress as your favorite Star Wars character or make up your own. Tickets start at $100 and include admission, open bar access from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m., Star Wars Takeaways, photo booth, live music and more.