Celebrations, Parades, and Fairs in Los Angeles
With so many events in Los Angeles, it can be challenging to decide where to go and what to do, but nothing compares to the annual festivals that keep the city buzzing. Perfect for both locals and tourists, these festivals are the must-see annual events to include in your itinerary.
We've selected 10 festivals in Los Angeles that you shouldn't miss: Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game, Kingdom Day Parade, Golden Dragon Parade, Academy Awards, Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, Hollywood Christmas Parade, WestWeek, July 4th Fireworks Spectacular, Los Angeles County Fair.
Read our detailed articles about each event below.
Our articles
Top Festivals in Los Angeles
Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game
Since 1890, millions of viewers worldwide celebrate New Year's Day with the annual Rose Parade, showcasing stunning flower-covered floats, top-notch equestrians, and energetic marching bands.
The Rose Parade has evolved into a national ceremony and an international event, considered one of the top 100 events in the USA.
Kingdom Day Parade
Sponsored by the Council of Racial Equality and honoring the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., the Kingdom Day Parade features over 150 floats, numerous cheerleading squads, dancers, a military band, a motorcycle brigade, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's equestrian unit.
Golden Dragon Parade
Celebrating Chinese New Year, the Golden Dragon Parade has been growing for over a century and now attracts more than 100,000 fans each year. You'll see 100-foot-long dragons, spectacular fireworks, martial arts demonstrations, and can explore Chinatown's vibrant culture.
Academy Awards
For nearly 90 years, the Oscar ceremony, organized by the Hollywood Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, has honored outstanding achievements in film production.
It awards the most recognized and prestigious trophy at one of the world's most famous award ceremonies, attracting millions of viewers worldwide who are eager to see who will take home the prize this year.
Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach
The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, one of Southern California's largest spectator racing events, has thrived for 40 years. Held in mid-April, it draws over 200,000 enthusiasts who come to enjoy the talents of the world's best drivers.
Hollywood Christmas Parade
The Hollywood Christmas Parade has been an American tradition for 80 years. Its main attraction is the appearance of Santa Claus, officially starting the holiday season, alongside film stars, all sorts of floats, marching bands, folk dances, giant balloons, and costumed performances.
WestWeek
WestWeek, one of the most important and largest annual design industry events and exhibitions on the West Coast, has been held for over 25 years. It attracts over 10,000 top interior designers, architects, and manufacturers.
The festival focuses on educational lectures, design presentations, previews of future trends, panel discussions, and much more.
Monterey Jazz Festival
The world's longest-running jazz festival, held every September at the Monterey Fairgrounds since 1958, presents the best jazz musicians for a three-day celebration.
In addition to performances, there are talks, group discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and a fair spread across the 20-acre fairgrounds. The Monterey Jazz Festival is a non-profit organization that donates its proceeds to music education.
July 4th Fireworks Spectacular
Thousands of people flock to Hollywood to celebrate July 4th — considered the birthday of the USA — and enjoy a traditional concert of patriotic and inspirational music, accompanied by a traditional explosion of fireworks over the Hollywood Hills.
Los Angeles County Fair
Now recognized as one of the largest fairs in the USA, the Los Angeles County Fair offers everything from street parades to individual costume walks. Colorful characters and wandering minstrels, carnivals, and rides, along with the atmosphere of typical county fairs, are all guaranteed.
Tips for Tourists
To make the most of the festivals in Los Angeles, it's important to plan your visit in advance. Many events require tickets to be purchased ahead of time, so keep an eye on dates and schedules. Don't forget comfortable clothing and footwear, as most festivals are held outdoors.
American Butler is ready to help you organize unforgettable excursions and visits to the best festivals in Los Angeles. We provide comfort and professional support at every stage of your journey. Our guides will share the most interesting facts and unique knowledge about each event.