How To Ring In The New Year In DC
Lifestyle
New Year’s Eve: It’s a night brimming with champagne toasts, midnight countdowns, renewed promise, and an abundance of hope. And when you’re celebrating in DC, that means endless opportunity to give 2021 the send off it really deserves. From family-friendly options to the most exclusive adult-only gatherings, DC has something for everyone this year. Scroll on for the best ways to ring in the New Year in Washington, DC!
Annual Andrew Mellon New Year’s Eve Gala
One of the most highly anticipated events of the season, the Andrew Mellon New Year’s Eve Gala is back for its sixth year. The strictly premier black-tie gala costs $100 and up, but gives you access to one of the most luxurious venues in DC. Some highlights? Magnificent ballrooms, three different party spaces, and multiple DJs playing different genres of music. You’ll also be able to indulge in free-flowing champagne throughout the night, along with access to a top-shelf open bar and complimentary party favors.
Gatsby’s DC Fireworks New Year’s Eve Yacht Party
Climb aboard the Spirit of Washington yacht for an unbelievable night of dinner and dancing as you take in 360-degree views of DC and a water-lined fireworks show.
Offerings include a buffet-style dinner that will satisfy even the most particular palate, a premium open bar for the entire cruise, party favors, two DJs, and so much more. Come dressed to impress in your finest zoot suits and flapper dresses. Tickets available here.
A Jazzy New Year’s Eve
Head on over to the iconic John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to say goodbye to 2021 with three masters of jazz. There will be performances by Afro-Cuban pianist Chucho Valdes, Grammy-winning vocalist Dianne Reeves, and saxophone royalty, Joe Lovano. Afterward, guests can stick around for dancing and a balloon drop countdown to the new year in the Grand Foyer.
➤ Here are some great DC wine & dine options:
Washington DC NYE Bar Crawl
What if one of the best places to ring in New Year’s Eve isn’t one particular place at all? The NYE Bar Crawl ticket, which averages around $30, gives you free entry to six of the most happening bars in downtown DC. You’ll start the fun at Sudhouse DC, and you’re then free to hop between any bar you choose. Choices include Brixton’s Rooftop Bar, Fainting Goat, and Sollys. In addition to bar access, your wristband also grants access to a complimentary appetizer buffet, drink tickets, photo booths and backdrops for photos, a champagne toast, and more.
Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights
What better way to spend New Year’s Eve than strolling through the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens? The park has been transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland complete with displays of greenery, animals, and classic holiday scenes. There will also be light-up gifts and ornaments, along with festive sweets and drinks.
Midnight At 7: Fireworks + A Walk Through Symphony of Lights
If your idea of a perfect New Year’s Eve means getting to sleep at a reasonable hour, you’ve come to the right place. Bring the kids out to the Merriweather Symphony of Lights for an early New Year’s celebration with fireworks — that won’t compromise your regular bedtime routines. The family-oriented display features animated and stationary holiday light decorations made up of more than 300,000 bulbs. Food trucks will be on site, and the event will wrap up with a countdown to “midnight” at 7 PM and a fireworks show.
➤ See what else there is to do in DC:
