In Los Angeles this New Year’s Eve? There’s no doubt most bars and clubs will be throwing a New Year’s bash, but maybe you’re looking for something a little more special. Whether you’re a tourist or a local looking for a fun new experience, here are a few of the best places to bring in 2011.
1. Cleopatra’s 2011 NYE Ball
The Ancient Egyptians never had it so good. Held at the legendary Grauman’s Egyptian Theater Courtyard, this party will be fit for a pharaoh. The inspiration is ancient, but the feel is modern. Cleopatra’s NYE Ball will have the best music all night and will greet the new year with a confetti blast, ballon drop, and amazing projected LED light show.
2. The Rose Bowl
If you’re looking for something with a smaller price tag, the Rose Bowl may be the place for you. While the Rose Parade isn’t until New Year’s Day, dedicated fans camp out the night before to ensure getting the prime spots. Come out for a party in the street! It’s sure to be an energetic, unpredictable way to bring in 2011. If you’re brave enough to stand outside in the cold all night, you’re sure to be rewarded with fun times, new friends, and prime parade-watching real estate. Great if you’re on a budget.
3. Universal City Walk
If you’re a visitor to Los Angeles (or even if you’ve been here your whole life), Universal City Walk is something you have to see. A fun, flashy atmosphere all year round, Universal City Walk pulls out all the stops on New Year’s Eve. Live music, great restaurants and clubs, and fun shopping are at arm’s length. Spend as much or as little money as you want. You can drop lots of cash for drinks, food, and shopping, or you can spend less and simply enjoy the festive environment. This is a fun spot for families, too.
4. Disneyland
Speaking of families, Disneyland may be the place for you if you want to show your kids a great New Year’s Eve. The whole family can enjoy tons of live bands, party favors, and all the magis of the park. Christmas attractions will still be up as well, letting you and your kids enjoy the Christmas parade, fireworks show, and snowfall! Even if the little ones can’t stay awake long enough to see the New Year, Mom and Dad will still have fun watching the special fireworks show. Be sure to get your ticket early, as this event sells out quickly.
5. Downtown Long Beach
If you’re trying to dodge the crowds and insane cover charges of most bars and clubs, head down to the free street party in Long Beach. Enjoy the open night air and live performances at the band shell at Rainbow Harbor to kick off the New Year as it hits the East Coast at 9pm. Pine Avenue will host a street dance party until 2011 makes it to the West Coast. Restaurants will be open, and at the stroke of midnight fireworks can be seen off the Queen Mary from the waterfront. Not only do you get to enjoy free fireworks, but you can ring in the New Year twice!
Happy 2011!
