Catalina Island to Host 52nd Annual New Year's Eve Gala at the Historic Casino Ballroom

AVALON, CA — For over half a century, one of California's most glamorous New Year's Eve traditions has unfolded 22 miles off the coast at the world-famous Catalina Casino. This December 31, the 52nd Annual New Year's Eve Gala invites guests to ring in 2026 in true island style.

The event features a gourmet buffet dinner, dessert, and a midnight balloon drop beneath the Casino's iconic Art Deco dome. Guests will enjoy live music by the Christien Anthony Band and a DJ to keep the dance floor active well past midnight.

Steeped in historic significance, the Catalina Casino has served as the island's premier architectural landmark since its opening in 1929. While the name "Casino" reflects the traditional Italian meaning of a "gathering place," the venue is a center for theater and ballroom dance and is not a gambling establishment. The gala offers a unique opportunity to experience Old Hollywood sophistication within this storied venue, surrounded by stunning ocean views.

Event Details:

  - Date: December 31, 2025

  - Location: Casino Ballroom, Catalina Island

  - Tickets: $225 per person (includes dinner, dancing, and party favors)

  - Attire: Tuxedos and ball gowns are encouraged for this black-tie-optional event.

Reservations are required. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.lovecatalina.com/events/by-holiday/new-years-eve-gala/. 

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About Love Catalina Island Tourism Authority: 

With over 200 members, the non-profit organization Love Catalina Island Tourism Authority is the champion of the island's business community. The organization fosters a successful economy through the promotion of the island as an attractive destination for travel with a focus on sustainability. For more information, please visit www.lovecatalina.com. Travelers can also join the conversation on Facebook (www.facebook.com/lovecatalinaisland) Instagram (@LoveCatalinaIsland) and X (@LoveCatalina_).

About Catalina Island: 

A picture-perfect island paradise just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, Catalina is a beautiful, dynamic, eclectic destination with a rich history, wide open spaces, and fresh ocean breezes. Catalina offers 25 lodging properties and 300 vacation rentals, including bed and breakfast inns, seaside condominiums, charming bungalows and hotels. The Island boasts 33 palate-pleasing restaurants, lively seaside bars, and an abundance of on- and off-water activities and amenities. Also, home to eight marine sanctuaries and the Catalina Island Conservancy (with 48,000 acres of pristine protected wilderness), these island treasures offer endless year-round outdoor recreation possibilities. Catalina is the perfect getaway all visitors will love. For more information, please visit www.LoveCatalina.com.