With 2024 just around the corner, many are looking for the perfect place to watch some fireworks, enjoy a fun activity and cheer for the new year! 

The Spectrum 1 News Weather Team has you covered with some cool places in Southern California that you, your friends and loved ones can enjoy this time of year.


What You Need To Know

  • SoCal has many events happening in NYE for you and your family to enjoy and choose from

  • The year 2022 finished with rain, and we are expected to remain mostly dry and cloudy for the end of 2023 but start with rain for 2024

  • According to signupgenius.com, the earliest recorded festivities in honor of a new year's arrival date back some 4,000 years to ancient Babylon

Dec. 21 was the official start of winter.

While we tracked a strong system that brought us rain, gusty winds and even high elevation mountain snow, we can expect calmer conditions on NYE into New Year's Day.

Friday into Saturday, light rain is expected regionwide,followed by a slight chance of rain in Pasadena on New Year's Day.

For the most part, it’s a great time to be outdoors and enjoy from the SoCal scenery as we welcome 2024.

The chances for rain will continue for the 1st week of 2024 so stay weather alert with Spectrum News 1 for everything you need to know.

Chilly nights and mornings will continue for Southern California.

There are multiple places in SoCal to ring in the New Year, but here are a few favorites you can visit so events are free others you will need to purchase.

 1. New Year's Eve at Universal Studios Hollywood

If you love theme parks, then this one is for you!

Besides its usual fun attractions, come out and enjoy a park-wide countdown party at Universal Studios Hollywood. And while you’re at it, invite the entire family.

This is known to be Hollywood’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration.

There will be live music starting at 9 p.m. on Dec. 31, and all the New Year festivities will continue until 2 a.m.

Universal Studios is a classic and top of the list for many Angelenos.

For Universal Platinum Pass members, the pass is valid for Dec. 31 and do not need a separate event ticket for admission to New Year’s Eve.

Keep in mind that prices may vary.

(Photo courtesy of Universal Studios)

2. Marina Del Rey’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Glow Party

Seeking a festive adventure for you NYE?

Head up to Marina Del Rey for The GLOW Party and NYE Fireworks to get you in the holiday spirit on.

Not only will you get to enjoy the fireworks by the beach but also music, live entertainment, food trucks, face painting, photo booths and much more.

GLOW Party is at Burton Chace Park.

This event is free and will start Dec. 31 from 7 p.m. to midnight.

Marina Del Rey offers special dinner cruises and other cool things for those who wish to experience something more private and pay.

(Photo courtesy of Marina Del Rey Tourism Board)

#3: New Year’s Eve aboard the Queen Mary

New Year’s Eve at The Queen Mary is a classic you can't resist.

One of the most oldest and coolest ships in Los Angeles County will be offering cool music, cocktails and a front-row view of the Long Beach waterfront fireworks at 9 p.m. and midnight.

What can beat that, right?

This event is adult friendly only, and you will need to purchase tickets.

The ticket pricing for the Queen Mary goes at $169 and VIP tickets $349 per person.

(Photo courtesy of The Queen Mary)

 4. N.Y.E.L.A. at Grand Park

Now while the DTLA area tends to have a couple of NYE events such as rooftop parties and exclusive dinners, The N.Y.E.L.A at Grand Park will be perfect for families who wish to enjoy the holiday at an affordable price: $0.

For all the music lovers, expect lots of live entertainment and plenty of DJs, live bands and food trucks.

Parking and food will be the only things you will need to pay for if you wish to purchase.

Please keep in mind no alcohol is permitted or sold at this event.

You are highly encouraged to use public transit such as Metro, which tends to be free on NYE.

(Photo courtesy of Grand Park LA)

Remember, the weather can change on a short notice.

After all, it’s up to Mother Nature, so stay weather aware and check your local forecast, especially as el Nino is expected to bring SoCal a wet winter.

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.