Things to Do On New Years Day
Most people think January 1st is a great day to unwind after the holidays. But, it’s actually a great day for activities. After all, there’s no better way to kick off a new year then to get out and have some fun!
The 130th Rose Parade
Date: January 1, 2019 at 8 a.m.
This year marks the 130th consecutive year of the famed Rose Parade in Pasadena. Starting at 8am on January 1, 2019, revelers will get a chance to see incredibly decorated floats made of flowers of all kinds, marching bands, equestrian units and more along an almost 6 mile stretch of Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena. Experience the magic of this once a year event and ring in the new year in style!
Polar Bear Plunge
Instead of avoiding the chilly weather on January 1st, embrace it! Join dozens of people the the annual Polar Bear Plunge! Open to the public, the event is free and will be held at meet up spots across the city, including at Cabrillo Beach, Hansen Dam, Venice Beach and Huntington Beach, and others.
Visit A Top Theme Park
Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland, Legoland, Knott’s Berry Farm
Take advantage that half the city of Los Angeles will be resting after a big night and get yourself tickets to Universal Studios. Getting your adrenaline pumping on any of the exciting rides is a great way to start the new year. There are also dozens of attractions, food stands and tons of stuff for the whole family or for the big kid in you and your friends. Be sure to take the iconic studio tour around the property, and also explore exciting areas like “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” as well as “King Kong 360 3-D,” “The Walking Dead Attraction,” and many others! Want to travel a bit further? Take a short ride to Disneyland, Legoland or Knott’s Berry Farm, where you can enjoy the great activities and attractions!
Go To The Polar Bear Ice Skate 2019
Pershing Square Ice Rink
January 1, 2019 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Grab some sunglasses, a pair of ice skates and a bathing suit (or best beach gear) to kick-off 2018! Pershing Square’s Bai Holiday Ice Rink is putting its own spin on the icy Canadian new year tradition by hosting a Polar Bear Ice Skate. The traditional afternoon on the 7,500 square foot ice rink is glorious under the California sun. Glide along the ice with favorite family members while the in-house DJ spins upbeat tunes. Prizes will be awarded to the best costumes – spectators select the winners. General admission is $9 and skate rental is $4.
Start The Year Off Healthy – Go Hiking
After a big night out, or if you had a more relaxed evening, why not get out and about and start the year off in a healthy way? Los Angeles, with great mountain hiking just a short drive, is home to great trails. From Runyon Canyon and hiking in Malibu to trails that will take you to the Hollywood Sign, there are many great Places To Go Hiking In Los Angeles.
The Autry Museum in Griffith Park
Nestled into the northeast corner of Griffith Park, this museum explores the history of the American West. You might just expect a kitschy exploration of the life and works of famous singing cowboy Gene Autry, but the museum presents a much more engaging exploration of the West, outlining its history and detailing the myths that came to surround it. Learn about Native Americans through art and artifacts brush up on a bit of cowboy with the museum’s collection of more than half a million objects. Afterwards, make sure to check out their Cross Roads West Café, research library and store. Keep an eye on their calendar since this museum also doubles as a venue for film screenings, lectures, music, and other events.
Free for veterans, peace officers, park rangers, and active military personnel with ID. Free to the public every second Tuesday of each month, New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day and President’s Day.