2025 has arrived and Los Angeles is already alive with an electrifying mix of events, activities, and adventures to kick off the year in style.
Whether you’re a foodie looking for the latest culinary gems, a culture lover eager to soak up the city’s rich traditions, or simply someone ready to explore new horizons, there’s something for everyone this January.
In this curated list, we’ll guide you through an array of must-see happenings that showcase the best of what L.A. has to offer because as always the city is brimming with opportunities to start the year on a high note.
Don’t just step into 2025 — dive in headfirst! Let these experiences inspire you to embrace the energy, diversity, and vibrancy that make Los Angeles a city like no other. Get ready to make memories and explore all the excitement waiting for you this month.
1 – Rose Bowl Parade
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Celebrate Life’s Best Moments at the 2025 Rose Bowl Parade this January 1st. This year’s theme, “Best Day Ever,” as announced by the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, celebrates the moments that bring joy, inspiration, and unforgettable memories.
Fittingly, the Grand Marshal for this year’s event is the legendary Billie Jean King—a trailblazer in sports and equality. Her presence perfectly embodies the spirit of this theme, honoring the triumphs and milestones that make life extraordinary.
Guests can look forward to a dazzling display of artistry, music, and horsemanship as the parade unfolds along its 5.5-mile route. The stunning floats, each crafted with thousands of vibrant flowers and natural elements, are the heart of the celebration, showcasing themes of love, achievement, and hope.
Alongside these floral masterpieces, world-class marching bands from across the country will fill the streets with their energizing rhythms and powerful performances.
Adding a touch of elegance and tradition, the Equestrian Units will captivate spectators, featuring groups such as the Arabian Horse Association and the beloved Budweiser Clydesdales.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Rose Bowl Parade offers a truly magical way to celebrate the start of 2025.
Don’t have tickets? You can arrive early to secure a great viewing spot and bring a comfy chair. Soak in the festive atmosphere filled with music, cheering crowds, and breathtaking sights.
For those who can’t make it to Pasadena, the event will be broadcast live on major networks, ensuring that everyone can share in the joy of this cherished tradition.
Location: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103
Pic Credit: @visitpasadena
2 – Dr. Martin Luther King’s Day – Events in LA
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Los Angeles is set to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a series of meaningful events that celebrate his vision of equality, peace, and unity.
One of the most prominent tributes is the annual Kingdom Day Parade, taking place on January 18th, starting at 10 am.
This beloved tradition features several community organizations coming together to commemorate Dr. King’s impact.
The parade route runs along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, attracting families, community leaders, and visitors who gather to celebrate his enduring message of justice and service. Visit the official website for maps and sponsorship opportunities https://kingdomdayparade.org/
For music lovers, the Santa Monica Symphony MLK Concert offers a soulful and uplifting way to honor Dr. King’s memory. This free event brings classical and gospel music to life, weaving powerful narratives of hope and perseverance. Held in the heart of Santa Monica, the concert features talented musicians and vocalists performing works inspired by Dr. King’s values.
Whether you’re a long-time symphony enthusiast or a newcomer, this celebration of harmony and unity is sure to leave a lasting impression. This annual concert is held at the SGI-USA World Peace Ikeda Auditorium.
The California African American Museum (CAAM) is hosting its annual King Day celebration on Monday, January 20th, providing an educational and inspiring experience for the whole family.
This day-long event includes engaging programs such as panel discussions, art workshops, and special exhibitions highlighting the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King’s influence.
Located in Exposition Park, CAAM’s celebration is a great way to reflect on his legacy while connecting with Los Angeles’s rich cultural heritage.
From parades to concerts and museum exhibits, these events honor the dream that continues to inspire us all.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @abc7
3 – Last Call – Winter Lights and Ice Rinks
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Enjoy while it lasts! It’s your last chance to marvel at some of LA’s most breathtaking light exhibits.
The Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens invites you to explore illuminated paths through towering trees and shimmering displays.
Also, the LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow, a dazzling spectacle featuring glowing animal lanterns and interactive displays.
Both exhibits are ideal for a magical evening stroll, offering unforgettable sights and perfect photo opportunities for all ages, but only until January 5th. Don’t miss out if you haven’t gone yet.
The Ice Rinks are wrapping up soon! Get your skates and glide across some of the city’s most festive ice rinks before they close for the season.
Pershing Square’s Holiday Ice Rink, nestled in the heart of downtown, is open until January 12th, offering a classic outdoor skating experience surrounded by the city skyline.
Also visit the LA Kings Holiday Ice at LA Live, it’s open until January 10th.
If you’re near the beach, the ICE at Santa Monica rink, with its palm tree backdrop, remains open until January 20th, adding a SoCal twist to the winter season.
Whether you’re lacing up your skates or soaking in the vibrant lights, January is the time to embrace these seasonal delights before they disappear.
Gather your family and friends for a winter outing that blends adventure and wonder.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @losangelesdailynews
4 – January Fun Exhibits
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Kick Off 2025 with Fun and Fascinating Exhibits in Los Angeles! Dive into the dazzling world of innovation at the Best in Low Exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum. This interactive display celebrates the artistry and engineering of lowrider culture, featuring stunning vehicles, vibrant design, and stories that bring this unique automotive tradition to life.
It’s an immersive experience where you can admire the craftsmanship up close and even try out digital tools to design your dream ride.
For those drawn to the interplay of art and technology, Plugged In – Art and Electric Light is a must-see.
This exhibit at the Norton Simon Museum explores the magic of light as a medium for artistic expression, showcasing pieces that glow, flicker, and transform spaces in mesmerizing ways. Held in a chic gallery setting, the installations create a sensory experience that invites visitors to engage with the artwork in unique and imaginative ways.
Whether you’re a lover of modern art or simply curious about the power of light, this exhibit will leave you inspired.
For a truly whimsical adventure, head to the Balloon Museum, where monumental inflatable artworks take center stage. This playful exhibit features larger-than-life installations that delight visitors of all ages, blending vibrant colors and creative shapes with an element of nostalgia.
Walk through tunnels of air, pose with balloon sculptures, and marvel at the sheer scale of these ephemeral masterpieces.
It’s the perfect outing for families, friends, or anyone looking to start 2025 with a sense of joy and wonder.
Don’t miss these fantastic exhibits—your January just got a lot more fun!
Location: various
PIC Credit: @nortonsimonmuseum
5 – New and Exciting Dining and Drink Options
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January is a time for fresh beginnings, and what better way to kick off the new year than with some unique food and drink experiences in Los Angeles? First on the list is Dining in the Dark, an unforgettable culinary adventure in Los Angeles.
This sensory dining experience plunges you into complete darkness, heightening your other senses to savor every flavor and texture of a curated multi-course meal.
Perfect for a date night or an evening of fun with friends, Dining in the Dark challenges your perception of taste and will leave you with lasting memories.
For wine enthusiasts, the Uncorked Wine Festival at Union Station is a can’t-miss event. Happening on January 25th, it features an impressive selection of over 100 wines from around the globe, accompanied by live music and local food trucks.
Set against the backdrop of the historic Union Station, this event combines sophistication and fun for a truly delightful night out.
Finally, don’t miss checking out Neighborly, LA’s newest food hall that has quickly become a local favorite. Located in Westlake Village, Neighborly features some very tasty food options from renowned eateries including Gaby’s, Social Monk, Mini Kabob and The Cheese Store.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @secretlosangeles
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!