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!
🌹Location: The 136th Rose Parade will take place on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in Pasadena, California, starting at 8:00 a.m. local time.
2. 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, 2025. 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!
3. 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.
4. Step into another world and experience cosmic displays at the stunning Astra Lumina
Astra Lumina in Los Angeles is an incredible experience for anyone and any age. This multisensory exhibit showcases the wonders of the night sky through interactive displays that bring this natural haven to life. You’ll traverse the stars, and galaxies, and tour the solar system using a fascinating combination of illuminated visuals and soundscapes which are designed to stimulate the senses and evoke emotions.
đź“Ť Location:Â South Coast Botanic Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
5. Start 2025 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! Register here.
đź“Ť Location: 4800 Crystal Springs Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027
6. 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.
7. 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!
8. 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.
9. 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!
đź“Ť Location: The Spotlight – 1601 North Cahuenga Boulevard, Los Angeles, 90028
10. Enjoy some alone time at one of these lush hidden 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.
11. Celebrate the Year of the Snake at LA’s Lunar New Year Festival
Come for the vibrant traditions and stay for the food. If you didn’t get your fix of celebrations on January 1, you can ring in the Lunar New Year at the two-day Monterey Park festival. Gather to the heart of L.A.’s Chinese community to experience a festive street fair filled with blocks of folk art, authentic Taiwanese meals, and a carnival featuring vibrant costumes!
📆 When: Jan. 18-19, 2025
đź“Ť Location: Garvey Ave. & Garfield Ave, Monterey Park, CA 91754
12. Explore Lite Brite: Worlds of Wonder
Dive into Lite Brite: Worlds of Wonder, where beloved childhood games meet cutting-edge immersive technology! Explore 11 interactive rooms and a stunning 360° LED theater that transports you to underwater, prehistoric, and outer space realms. Perfect for a family-friendly adventure, this experience offers about 60 minutes of captivating, nostalgia-filled fun.
đź“Ť Location: 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, CA 90401
🎫 Get your tickets here!
13. Enter a spooky realm at The Obscure
Look for the dim glow of an amber lantern along Santa Fe Avenue in DTLA, marking the discreet entrance to The Obscure. But be warned — entry is by ticket only. Inside, this captivating hideaway blends masterfully crafted cocktails and art with an eerie, otherworldly ambiance. It’s a spellbinding escape where creativity meets mystery, guaranteed to transport you to another realm. RSVP to The Obscure here!
đź“Ť Location: The Obscure, 1356 Palmetto Street, Los Angeles, 90013
14. Sing your heart out at iHeartRadio ALTer Ego
Every year, the biggest names in Alternative Rock come together for iHeartRadios’s annual ALTer Ego concert and event. For year eight, they are going all out with Incubus, The Lumineers, Cage The Elephant, Glass Animals, The Offspring, St. Vincent, Damiano David, and more!
📆 When: Jan. 11, 2025
đź“Ť Location: Kia Forum – 3900 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90305
15. Have good, clean, sober fun at these alcohol-free bars
If your New Year’s resolution is to skip the booze, you’re in luck — Los Angeles is home to a growing scene of non-alcoholic bars! These vibrant spots offer creative mocktails, lively atmospheres, and a welcoming space to socialize sans alcohol. Cheers to making connections and memories while keeping it clean! Check out our list of favorite alcohol-free bars.
16. Put these two tidefalls on your road trip bucket list
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Image by Cosmin Serban via Unsplash
We all love a waterfall and no California resident can live without a healthy quota of beach days, so when you combine that you get the natural—and rare—magic of a tidefall. And the West Coast happens to be home to two of them. So, get out your bucket list and add these two gems immediately. Find out more here.
17. Deliver yourself from the dark side at The Empire Strips Back
Step into the galaxy’s dark side like never before! With a perfect blend of comedy, allure, and outrageous parody, The Empire Strips Back reimagines your favorite Star Wars characters in a wildly entertaining burlesque performance. Prepare to be captivated by seductive Stormtroopers, a dangerously charismatic Boba Fett, enchanting Twi’leks, a cheeky Taun Taun, a femme-fatale Skywalker, and, of course, the Droids you’re looking for. This is Star Wars-parody as you’ve never seen it — bold, hilarious, and irresistibly fun. Get your tickets to The Empire Strips Back!
đź“Ť Location: 14140 All American Way, Westminster, CA
18. Visit a national park for free on Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday
Part of your New Year’s resolutions might be to get out more, so you might as well do it at one of the country’s prized natural settings—and for free. On January 15th, the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., all 400 national parks will be free. If you’re wondering which park to visit amongst all the incredible choices, you can check out our list of top parks you need to visit at least once in a lifetime.
📆 When: Jan. 15, 2025
19. Indulge all your sense at Chromasonic Field
Surround yourself in the Chromasonic Field, a mesmerizing 10,000 sq. ft. experience in Downtown LA where color, sound, and space harmonize to awaken your senses. Explore 21 unique zones, each a stunning blend of light and sound designed to reshape your perception and elevate your spirit. Whether you’re craving a moment of personal reflection or a shared adventure with loved ones, this journey promises to be unforgettable. Described by KCRW as “mind-altering” and deeply transformative, Chromasonic Field is an experience for both the soul and the imagination. Don’t miss your chance — grab your tickets to Chromasonic Field today!
đź“Ť Location: Rose Center Theater, 14140 All American Way, Westminster, CA
20. Decompress at one of these cabins with hot tubs
Shake off any 2024 stress by escaping to one of these breathtaking cabins. Around SoCal, the term “cabins” is interpreted as anything ranging from sustainable farm lofts in the desert to a wooden cabin nestled amongst the snow-capped mountains. We’ve gathered five incredible ones in and around L.A. that guarantee sheer relaxation—in other words, they come with a hot tub. Check out the full list of hot tub abodes here.
21. Walk on illuminated trails lined with dozens of light sculptures at Lektrik LA
Experience the magic of 3D art at Lektrik: A Festival of Lights, now lighting up Raging Waters LA! Explore over 40 stunning handmade lantern displays, including vibrant rainforests and ancient Aztec art, all created by more than 150 talented artists. Enjoy artisan markets, live entertainment, and delicious food at this season’s brightest holiday celebration. Learn more about Lektrik here!
đź“Ť Location: Raging Waters LA, 111 Raging Waters Dr, San Dimas, CA 91773
22. Hike to these aqua thermal springs and treat yourself to a healing soak
All around Southern California, you can find stunning outdoor spas. These cascading thermal pools known as hot springs can often be reached with an easy trek and are filled with sulfur which is known for its healing properties. Is there anything better than rewarding yourself with a free, hot soak after a long year? Check out all the hot springs around L.A. here.
23. Sip the finest vintages at Uncorked Wine Festival at Union Station
This year’s Uncorked Wine Festival might just be the best one yet, with a variety of wineries from around the world showcasing their finest vintages hosted at the stunning Union Station. Guests will get to sample wines from over 100 wineries while enjoying live music, DJs, delicious food, and a variety of activities within the Art Deco gem. Even if you don’t know the difference between a sauvignon and chardonnay, you’ll leave feeling one (tipsy) step closer to being a sommelier.
📆 When: Jan. 25, 2025
đź“Ť Location: Union Station, 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
24. Plan your ski season at Big Bear
Take an enchanting ride under the stars at Snow Summit. The only thing better than skiing under gorgeous blue skies is night skiing through a winter wonderland snow with a glowing trail of lights. Beginner and intermediate snowboarders and skiers will be able to glide down the beautifully illuminated Upper Miracle Mile and Summit Run or along the legendary Westridge Park. Find out more here.
25. Shout “Go, Kings, Go!” at a hockey game
Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for an electrifying experience, the energy of a packed crowd in the City of Champions is truly unbeatable. And what better way to embrace the spirit of winter than by cheering on the LA Kings? From the roar of the fans to the edge-of-your-seat action on the ice, a Kings game at Crypto.com Arena is an unforgettable outing. Don your team colors, grab some friends, and find yourself in the thrill of the LA Kings season!
đź“Ť Location: Crypto.com Arena, 1111 S. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA
Edited by Jamie Ferrell