If your resolution this new year was to add more fun to your life in Los Angeles this January –– you came to the right place. While the glow of the holidays begins to dim, there are still plenty of wonderful ways to keep you busy for the month. Whether it’s running a 5K, creating a bucket list, or taking a short trip to enjoy the snow — you’ll get to kick off the year with tons of new discoveries and experiences. Here are all the things to do this January around Los Angeles.
1. Watch or attend the historic Rose Parade
For millions both locally and around the globe, the Rose Parade is a cherished tradition, celebrating artistry, creativity, and community spirit as it graces Pasadena’s iconic Colorado Boulevard. You can be a part of the magic. Here’s how you can watch the Rose Parade in person or online, and join in the festivities! The 137th Rose Parade will take place on Thursday, January 1, 2026, in Pasadena, California, starting at 8:00 a.m. local time.
📅When: Thursday, January 1, 2026
🌹Where: Pasadena, CA
2. See Quentin Tarantino’s cinematic universe come to life onstage with Tarantino Live! at CineVita
Tarantino Live! has returned to CineVita after popular demand for four electric performances. The show reimagines iconic moments from films like Kill Bill, Pulp Fiction, and Django Unchained with a live rock soundtrack, cinematic storytelling, and bold performances that unfold around and throughout the audience. Click here for more!
📅When: Saturdays through January 24 (subject to change)
🌹Where:CineVita – 1248 S District Drive, Inglewood, CA 90303, at the picturesque Hollywood Park, next to SoFi Stadium
3. Learn all about America’s most iconic muscle car at this Mustang immersive experience
When you think of American muscle cars, there’s only one that’s reigned supreme for 60 years. The Ford Mustang has a long and rich history, and it’s on full display at an exhibit coming soon to L.A. From Imagine—the team that created the Jurassic World and Titanic Exhibitions—comes American Icon: A Mustang Immersive Experience. Click here for tickets & more info.
📅When: Open now through February 8 (subject to change)
🌹Where: 539 S Mission Rd
4. Missed out on the parade? You can still witness the beauty at Float Fest!
For a close-up view of the breathtaking floats, visit Floatfest: A Rose Parade Showcase from January 1 – 3, 2026. Typically a two-day event, this year’s showcase has been extended to three days, offering even more time to admire and photograph the stunning floral creations. More info!
📅When: January 1 – 3, 2026
🌹Where: E Sierra Madre Blvd & E Washington Blvd Pasadena, CA 91107
5. Unwind after the holidays with one of these peaceful escapes around L.A.
The holiday hustle can take its toll, leaving you in need of a well-deserved reset. Taking time to unwind isn’t a luxury — it’s essential for restoring your energy, lifting your spirits, and finding balance. Whether it’s a quick pause to enjoy your favorite song, journal your thoughts, or catch up with a friend, even small acts of self-care can make a difference. For those craving a deeper escape, we’ve compiled a list of top spots in Los Angeles perfect for recharging and reconnecting with your inner calm. Treat yourself — you’ve earned it.
6. Uncover the truth in The Jury Experience: Death on the Port Side
Step into the courtroom in The Jury Experience: Death on the Port Side, a chilling true-story drama. Greed, passion, and revenge collide as you sift through witness testimonies, examine evidence, and unravel a twisted murder case. Every choice matters, your verdict could seal the accused’s fate…
📅When: Saturday, Jan. 10, 2025
📍Where: 3200 Motor Avenue, Los Angeles, 90034
The Jury Experience – Death by AI: Will Los Angeles Make Justice?
7. Start 2026 on the right foot with the Griffith Park Resolution Run
Kick off the new year with a healthy start at the Griffith Park Resolution Run! Choose your challenge with a 5K, 12K, or half marathon, all starting at Shane’s Inspiration in Griffith Park. The half marathon begins at 7:15 a.m., followed by the 12K at 7:45 a.m., and the 5K at 8:20 a.m. Lace up your running shoes and set the tone for a strong and active year ahead! You can register here.
📅When: Sunday, January 4, 2026
📍Where: 4800 Crystal Springs Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027
8. Experience the gentle glow of candlelight at one of these classical concerts
The wildly popular Candlelight Concerts will be setting the winter nights aglow with these mesmerizing musical concerts set in some of L.A.’s most beautiful venues, including the Immanuel Presbyterian Church. Wrap yourself in the nostalgia with awe-inspiring renditions of classics across genres. Whether it’s a tribute to Pink Floyd, Taylor Swift, or other greats — you’ll find something for every musical taste. See all of January’s upcoming Candlelight concerts here.
9. Embrace the magic of a SoCal winter by escaping to these breathtaking snow-capped mountains
Believe it or not – you can embrace some winter wonderland vibes in sunny California! Grab your gear and head to these magnificent SoCal mountains for an exhilarating escape from the ordinary. From sledding down the stunning peaks to skiing adrenaline-pumping slopes, January is the perfect time to carve some unforgettable memories in the Golden State. Get the full list of snowy destinations near Los Angeles here!
10. Explore these surreal places you won’t believe are around L.A.
Los Angeles is filled with enchanting places, from tiled gems to enchanting structures based on fairytales, every corner offers a new adventure. Many of which will transport you to another city and sometimes another realm. Explore some of our favorite weird and wonderful places across Los Angeles that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world here.
11. Venture into the unknown and awaken your senses at Dining In The Dark
Venture into the unknown and awaken your senses in a whole new way this new year! Step into a world of mystery and culinary adventure at Dining in the Dark, where blindfolds bring food to life. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and challenge your perception. Try something new this month, and grab your seat to Dining In The Dark here!
📅When: Friday, January 23, 2026
📍Where: City Club Los Angeles (555 Flower Street 51st Floor, Los Angeles, 90071)
Dining in the Dark: A Unique Blindfolded Dining Experience at City Club - 4.05 · 257 reviews
12. Enjoy some alone time at one of these lush gardens around L.A.
Speaking of connecting with nature – whether it’s the glorious national parks or a retreat at some of California’s incredible outdoor destinations, West Coast residents are spoilt for choice when it comes to pockets of greenery to explore. So if you’re looking for a little outdoor solitude but don’t necessarily have a day to dedicate to the whole of Griffith Park, then here are the lesser-known places to clear your mind this January in Los Angeles.
13. Experience the desert’s most glamorous courtside event
Desert Smash is officially heading back to La Quinta for its 22nd year, blending world-class athletics with the unmistakable energy of Hollywood. This isn’t your typical quiet afternoon at the club; it’s a high-octane weekend where A-list icons and Grand Slam champions team up for the ultimate celebrity pro-am. Between the intense tennis and pickleball matches, the event doubles as a luxury desert getaway complete with high-end hospitality—all in support of the USTA Foundation. As the unofficial kickoff to the Coachella Valley tennis season, it remains the ultimate destination for those looking to see the sport through a decidedly more glamorous lens.
📍 LOCATION: La Quinta, CA
🗓️ DATES: March 2–3, 2026
14. Secure Your Spot Early To Candlelight: The Lord of the Rings — A Classical Music Concert
Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences and Candlelight are bringing the magic of Middle-earth to life with Candlelight: The Lord of the Rings — a classical music concert. This 60-minute journey features a string quartet performing iconic scores from The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. Surrounded by thousands of candles, guests will revisit epic themes as the franchise nears its 25th anniversary. Tickets are now on sale for this stunning tribute to the legendary film trilogy’s powerful soundtrack.
🗓️ When: January 9, 2026