New Year’s Eve Festivities Around Every Corner

With the year 2022 swiftly approaching, fireworks and streamers aren’t the only way to countdown to midnight. This New Year’s Eve, there’s something for everyone whether it’s live rock bands, club nights, a glass of quality champagne, or staying in with loved ones viewing a virtual event. Here is a list of a few fun events happening in Long Beach this New Year’s Eve including a few stay-at-home options.

Celebrate the new year at the Aquarium of the Pacific’s fourth annual New Year’s Eve Night Dive; with a live band performing in the Great Hall and DJs performing around the corridors, all handpicked by the team behind Night Dive. The event begins at 8:00 p.m, the countdown begins at Midnight and partying lasts until 1:00 a.m 

To attend this event, the Aquarium requires documentation of complete immunization or a negative antigen COVID-19 test within one day prior to the event. Visitors, despite vaccination status, must wear a face mask while indoors. More information can be found here.

To welcome in the new year, the sky above the Downtown Waterfront will be illuminated with lights approaching midnight with a free fireworks display; make reservations at one of downtown’s numerous restaurants to ensure a delicious meal and a magnificent light show. For more information, go here. 

If a hot meal does not sound appealing, Long Beach residents are urged to shop at local businesses, which include boutiques, furniture stores, and knick-knacks everyone can enjoy. 

Many retailers close before 8 p.m; swing by your local retailer before venturing to a local brewery for the evening. For more information on what retailers may be open, go here 

L’Opera hosts a traditional New Year’s Eve celebration with live musical performances, dancing, and chef’s specialties from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. General reservations are welcomed between 4 and 11:30 p.m; New Year’s Eve Countdown bookings, on the other hand, begin at 9 p.m. Musical Talent will also be offered on lower floors in the Wine Cellar, including Doug Sinatra and Crooner Tribute.

To make an online reservation, click here. 

Long Beach has festivities around every corner; so don’t be afraid to try something new, whether it’s visiting a new eatery downtown or seeing a rock group live. New Year’s Eve is a time for new beginnings and transformation.

If you want to celebrate from the comfort and safety of your own home, there are plenty of online events that will keep your New Year’s exciting. Play Virtual Bingo with Cerrito Entertainment, join a Zoom Dance Party, or participate in a 60’s sing-along.

No matter what your New Year’s Eve plans are, please stay safe and follow the  Center for Disease Control’s COVID-19 guidelines. Cheers to a happy and healthy 2022!

By Sofia Youngs and Casey N. Wilson