Los Angeles is preparing for a significant year in 2026, with a series of major events and new infrastructure projects aimed at attracting visitors from around the world. The city will serve as a host for the FIFA World Cup 26 at SoFi Stadium and introduce several cultural venues, including the David Geffen Galleries at LACMA and the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. Infrastructure improvements such as the LAX Automated People Mover and Metro D Line Extension are expected to improve transportation for both residents and tourists.
The Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board has released “26 Reasons to Visit LA in 2026,” highlighting key attractions and events scheduled throughout the year. Among these is an ongoing effort to support wildfire recovery by encouraging tourism and facilitating charitable giving through partnerships like Kind Traveler, which directs funds to local recovery initiatives.
Cultural sites like the Getty Villa have reopened after restoration work following wildfires, demonstrating resilience in affected communities. Local businesses, such as Betsy restaurant in Altadena, also contribute to economic recovery by supporting those impacted by recent fires.
In sports, Los Angeles will host high-profile events including the NBA All-Star Game at Intuit Dome, U.S. Women’s Open Golf Championship at Riviera Country Club, and multiple matches of FIFA World Cup 26 at SoFi Stadium. The city’s sports scene features international athletes like Shohei Ohtani and Son Heung-min.
Several arts institutions will debut or expand in 2026. Frieze LA returns with over 100 galleries from more than 20 countries. The Holocaust Museum is set to open its expanded Jona Goldrich Campus. Refik Anadol Studio will launch DATALAND – Museum of AI Arts in downtown Los Angeles. The David Geffen Galleries at LACMA will open in April, providing additional space for permanent collections. Gustavo Dudamel’s final season as Music & Artistic Director of the LA Philharmonic will be celebrated with “Gracias Gustavo.” Other openings include the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Exposition Park and the Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center in Glendale.
The culinary sector continues to grow with events like Dine LA Restaurant Week, pop-ups from renowned chef René Redzepi of Noma, new grocery stores such as T&T Supermarket, and restaurants led by notable chefs Phil Rosenthal and Nancy Silverton.
Hotel developments include openings such as Hotel Lucile in Silverlake, Pan Am Hotel within Citadel Outlets, Fairmont Century Plaza’s anniversary marked by new restaurants, and Kali Hotel near major entertainment venues.
Community events remain central to Los Angeles’ identity with annual celebrations including Lunar New Year festivities in Chinatown, LA Pride Parade in Hollywood, Juneteenth Freedom Ride & Festival centered on Black culture, and Día de Los Muertos observances on Olvera Street and Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
Infrastructure upgrades are also underway: The LAX Automated People Mover aims to streamline airport access; Metro D Line Subway Extension is expected to reduce travel times along Wilshire Boulevard; West Harbor complex will add retail spaces and an amphitheater along San Pedro’s waterfront.
According to Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board: “Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board (Los Angeles Tourism) is the non-profit destination marketing and sales organization for the Los Angeles tourism industry and the ultimate resource for where to stay and play in the LA area. Los Angeles is a dynamic, ever-evolving destination – where diversity thrives, and everyone is welcome. Discover the true LA by exploring its more than 30 culturally rich neighborhoods, each one offering a distinct vibe. LA is home to more than 300 days of warm sunshine, 75 miles of idyllic shoreline, more museums and performing arts venues than any other U.S. city, and an innovative culinary scene led by influential tastemakers. A global creative capital and the epicenter of the sports universe, LA presents limitless possibilities for visitors from around the world.”
For further details about upcoming events or travel information related to Los Angeles’ offerings in 2026 visit discoverlosangeles.com or follow their social media channels.
