2026 set to be a Golden age for California

US state has plenty to celebrate, including World Cup fever, milestone anniversaries for famous attractions, and new openings

- 

California is welcoming 2026 with a wave of new attractions, hotel openings and milestone celebrations, coupled with mega-events that will put the state's iconic cities on a global stage. Here, we take a look at what is in store across the Golden State...

MAJOR EVENTS & MILESTONES:

Route 66 celebrates Centennial, throughout 2026

From the deserts of San Bernardino County to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, California will celebrate its legendary stretch of Route 66, as it turns 100 in 2026.

Travellers can look forward to roadside landmarks, retro-inspired motels, a new visitor centre and cultural installations celebrating the Mother Road's rich history.

Super Bowl LX returns to San Francisco Bay Area, February 2026

San Francisco will host Super Bowl LX in 2026, bringing one of the world's premier sporting events back to the Bay Area. The city will celebrate with fan festivals, community activations and special events.

California gateways to host FIFA World Cup 2026 games, June 2026

California will play a major role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with 14 matches hosted in both the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara and SoFi Stadium in Inglewood will welcome fans from around the world as part of the tournament's expanded North American format.

NASCAR San Diego Weekend, June 2026

For the first time ever, NASCAR will host races on an active military base in San Diego. The three-day weekend event features the Craftsman Truck Series, Xfinity Series and Cup Series, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy.

ARTS & ATTRACTIONS

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art to open in LA, September 2026