Archive · 31 Dec 2025
California Celebrates 2026 with Fireworks and Festivities
California is getting ready to celebrate the arrival of 2026 with lots of fun events.
In San Francisco, there will be a big fireworks show over the bay at midnight.
People can watch from places like the Embarcadero or even from boats.
In Mammoth Lakes, there will be an early fireworks show at 9:00 p.m.
with live music.
In Long Beach, the historic Queen Mary ship will host a masquerade party with fireworks.
There are also many family-friendly events and parties happening all over the state.
People are advised to plan ahead and arrive early to enjoy the celebrations.
San Francisco's annual waterfront fireworks show will take place at midnight on December 31, 2025, along the Embarcadero.
Mammoth Lakes will host a family-friendly fireworks and concert event at 9:00 p.m. in The Village.
The Queen Mary in Long Beach will offer a masquerade-themed New Year's Eve celebration with a midnight fireworks display.
Several Bay Area cruises will provide front-row seats to the fireworks, including the Speakeasy SF and Under the Fireworks cruises.
Family-friendly events include Gilroy Gardens NYE Celebration, Noon Year’s Eve at Children’s Discovery Museum, and the USS Hornet Big Band Gala.
- Who
- Residents and visitors of California
- What
- New Year's Eve celebrations with fireworks, concerts, and parties
- When
- December 31, 2025
- Where
- Various locations across California, including San Francisco, Mammoth Lakes, and Long Beach
- Why
- To celebrate the arrival of 2026 with festive events and fireworks displays
- San Francisco Fireworks
- Midnight, Embarcadero (Mission to Folsom Streets), Free
- Mammoth Lakes Fireworks
- 9:00 p.m., The Village, Free
- Queen Mary Fireworks
- Midnight, Long Beach, Masquerade-themed
- Best Viewing Spots in SF
- South of Ferry Building, Pier 14, Telegraph Hill, Alta Street, Calhoun Terrace
- Alternative Viewing Spots
- Treasure Island, Oakland Hills, Grizzly Peak, Marina Park Pathway, Marin Headlands
- Bay Area Cruises
- Speakeasy SF, Under the Fireworks, Gatsby’s Yacht, Berkeley Dinner Cruise
- Family-Friendly Events
- Gilroy Gardens, Noon Year’s Eve, USS Hornet Gala, Chabot Balloon Drop
- Party Options
- International Ball, Black & White Masquerade, MOANY NYE, Comedy Countdown, Napa Valley Wine Train
