Illustration of a family in sweaters passing dishes at a holiday dinner table with a gingerbread house (53rd Annual New Year's Eve Gala Celebration)
Christmas Parties

53rd Annual New Year's Eve Gala Celebration

Guests dress in evening wear to ring in the new year inside the historic circular ballroom overlooking Avalon Bay. The celebration includes a gourmet buffet dinner and dessert alongside musical performances ranging from Big Band to contemporary pop with a live DJ. Attendees dance across the parquet floor, receive party favors, and celebrate with a classic midnight balloon drop.

Thu, Dec 31, 2026

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

$235 per person, including gourmet buffet dinner and dessert, dancing, party favors, and the midnight balloon drop. Children pay the same price regardless of age. Parties of two may reserve a private table for an additional $100 per table plus the per-person price; there are 28 private tables total, offered first-come, first-served. Private tables in Sections C and D are sold out. Reservations require full payment; payment is accepted by VISA, MasterCard, or American Express.

Hours

Casino doors open 6:45pm; dinner reservations 7:00, 7:30, 8:00, or 8:30 pm (the table-selection section instead offers 7:00, 7:30, or 8:30 pm); Ballroom entry no more than 15 minutes before the chosen reservation time; Marine Bar available until 9:00 pm; buffet until approximately 9:30 pm; band until approximately 12:30 am.

Ages

All ages (pricing is the same for children)

Neighborhood

Avalon

Food & Drink

The event includes a gourmet buffet dinner and dessert, with coffee and tea; beverages are available for purchase at the bar, and vegetarian and gluten-free items are labeled.

Location

Casino Ballroom · 1 Casino Way, Avalon, CA 90704 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ (2/5)

Best For

Adults, couples, and groups seeking a formal new year’s eve dinner and dancing

Vibe

Elegant and festive

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Tips & Advice

  • Reserve early because seating sections and dinner reservation choices are limited and can sell out.
  • Include everyone who wants to sit together in one reservation under a single name to arrange group seating.
  • Have your entire party present to check in and enter together; the reservation confirmation and party name serve as entry.
  • Wear the required evening attire, and use the coat check on the Mezzanine level if needed.
  • Walk from the center of town or use the on-demand COAST shuttle service to reach the Casino.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Parties of two can reserve a limited private table for an additional charge; availability is first-come, first-served.
  • Guests choose a dinner reservation time; tables remain theirs for the entire evening.
  • Reserve early because seating sections and dinner reservation times are limited and can sell out.

Links & Contact

Run by Love Catalina Island Tourism Authority

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are children welcome at the gala?

Yes. Children are allowed, and reservations cost the same for them regardless of age.

What food and drinks are included or available?

The buffet includes dinner, dessert, coffee and tea. Beverages are available for purchase at the bar; outside food and drinks are not allowed.

Can the buffet accommodate dietary needs?

Gluten-free and vegetarian items are labeled. Indicate allergies when reserving, and the chefs will do their best to accommodate them.

How should we arrange seating with friends?

Make one reservation under a single name and include everyone who wants to sit together. Some smaller parties may share tables with other guests.

What should guests wear, and is there a coat check?

Gentlemen must wear a coat and tie; black tie is optional. Ladies may wear evening cocktail attire or formal ball gowns. A coat check is available.

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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