**Ring in the New Year with a Bang: Alternative Activities to Enjoy on New Year’s Day in Los Angeles**
If you’re not a fan of the chilly weather and large crowds that often accompany the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day in Los Angeles, there’s no need to stay cooped up indoors. The city offers plenty of exciting activities and events to help you ring in the new year in style.
**Catch a New Year’s Day Movie or NFL Game**
Those looking for a more low-key celebration can catch a movie or sports game at a local theater or stadium. AMC and Regal Cinemas will be open on New Year’s Day, showing a variety of films for both adults and families. Some highlights include:
* “Nosferatu” and “A Complete Unknown” for viewers 17 and older
* Family-friendly films such as Mufasa: The Lion King, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Moana 2, and Wicked
For a more immersive experience, head to Cosm in Inglewood, which will be showing three College Football Playoff games: Arizona State vs. Arizona State at 10 a.m., Texas State, Oregon State at Ohio State at 2 p.m., and Georgia State at Notre Dame at 5:30 p.m.
**Get Ready for a Big Sale**
Shopaholics, rejoice! Many malls in Southern California will be open on New Year’s Day, offering a chance to grab some deals during the year-end sales and clearances. Make sure to check the specific mall’s hours, as they may be limited:
* Glendale Galleria, Westfield Century City, Citadel Outlets, and Del Amo Fashion Plaza
* Hours vary by mall, but most will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with Citadel Outlets staying open until 9 p.m.
Don’t forget to check your local grocery stores, including Target, Trader Joe’s, and Walmart, which will also be open on New Year’s Day. However, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm their hours before making a special trip.
**Theme Parks and Other Attractions**
If you’re looking to turn your New Year’s celebration into a mini-vacation, Southern California’s theme parks have got you covered:
* **Disneyland Resort:**
+ Walt Disney World and California Adventure will be open on New Year’s Day
+ Single-day, single-park adult tickets start at $206 on Wednesdays
+ The Christmas Fantasy Parade runs through January 6 at 2:30 and 5:30 p.m.
* **Universal Studios Hollywood:**
+ Open on New Year’s Day with one-day general admission tickets starting at $154 for adults
+ CityWalk, a commercial area adjacent to the theme park, will also be open without admission
* **Six Flags Magic Mountain:**
+ Open on New Year’s Day with tickets starting at $49
+ General day tickets give visitors access to Holiday in the Park, which features dazzling lights and holiday entertainment
* **Knott’s Berry Farm:**
+ Also open on New Year’s Day with tickets starting at $81.99 online and $99 at the door
* **Balloon Museum:**
+ Showcasing “Let’s Fly,” an interactive inflatable installation
+ Adult tickets start at $52.21
* **Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park:**
+ Open, but individual vendors on the pier may be closed
Additional alternatives to check out:
* **Griffith Observatory:** The observatory will be open, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city while learning about the winter sky.
**Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)**
Q: What are the hours for New Year’s Day movie showtimes at AMC and Regal Cinemas?
A: Hours vary by theater, but most will be open throughout the day.
Q: Are any malls open on New Year’s Day in Southern California?
A: Yes, many malls will be open, including Glendale Galleria, Westfield Century City, Citadel Outlets, and Del Amo Fashion Plaza.
Q: Can I catch the College Football Playoff games at Cosm in Inglewood?
A: Yes, Cosm is hosting three games: Arizona State vs. Arizona State at 10 a.m., Texas State, Oregon State at Ohio State at 2 p.m., and Georgia State at Notre Dame at 5:30 p.m.
Q: Are Disney’s theme parks open on New Year’s Day?
A: Yes, both Walt Disney World and California Adventure will be open.
Q: Can I purchase tickets online for the theme parks and other attractions?
A: Yes, you can purchase tickets online for many of the attractions and events mentioned above.
**Conclusion**
Los Angeles offers a wide range of activities to celebrate the start of a new year, from movie screenings and sports games to shopping and theme park adventures. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day with family or an action-packed mini-vacation, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
