Ƶapp

Things to do in the DC area: New Year’s Eve parties, National Menorah Lighting … and more!

As 2025 approaches, the D.C. area is gearing up to ring in the New Year with unforgettable celebrations for every kind of partygoer. From glittering galas at historic landmarks to lively parties in trendy restaurants, there’s no shortage of ways to welcome Jan. 1 in style.


Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the D.C. area.


At Ciel Social Club, they’re switching it up this year with their . Enjoy whimsical, woodland decor with panoramic views of the city. This experience includes a two-hour open bar, heavy passed hors d’oeuvres, live music and party favors. Early-bird tickets are $150 per person, which will raise to $175.

For large selection of craft beers, wines and curated cocktails, head to (priced at $150), whose bash will also include a live DJ.

For dancing the night away, is hosting several live DJs, plus a premium open bar. Tickets cost $65.

Celebrate the new year on and off the track at the recently-opened . Their party includes live DJs, contests, dancing and a welcome drink. General admission tickets cost $52, while VIP tickets cost $140.

hotel in Adams Morgan has two tiers of tickets for their experience. General admission is free with RSVP and includes a champagne toast at midnight and access to a cash bar at No Goodbyes. The VIP mezzanine access costs $180 per person with an optional bottle of champagne for $450. This latter experience includes exclusive access to an open bar, light bites and “aura photography.”

is celebrating with a four-hour open bar, a buffet dinner, a champagne toast at midnight and a live DJ. Tickets cost approximately $100.

event costs $160 per person with a premium open bar, seafood towers, oyster shucking station, carving stations, passed hors d’oeuvres, a champagne station and live DJs across two floors.

is celebrating with festive party favors, a complimentary midnight toast with sparkling wine and an all-day happy hour menu with highlights like truffle burger sliders.

One of the many seasonal pop-ups is hosting a New Year’s Eve party. On top of Union Market, the experience at includes a four-hour open bar, a snack buffet, a live DJ and a dome projection show. Tickets cost $225 through Dec. 24 and increase to $245 thereafter.

For those in Virginia, head to Jammin Java in Vienna, Virginia, for their . Tickets cost $35.

Don your best pajamas for . This party includes a complimentary mini-hurricane cocktail, sausage and vegan gumbo and live music from the New Orleans jazz band Black Masala. The party starts at noon with a maximum time of two hours per table.

For masquerade balls, consider (priced at $240+), ($75), ($150), ($125+) and ($230).

Here’s what else is happening in the D.C. area:

DC

Concert at Rhizome D.C.
The Takoma Park arts and music space, Rhizome D.C., is hosting a that include Ella G, A Former Friend and Broommaker. Tickets are sold on a sliding scale and start at $10. The event is on Friday, Dec. 20.

Embassy Row Holiday Chocolate Tour
Take a stroll along one of the District’s most famous grand boulevards, Embassy Row. A tour guide will and the embassies that inhabit them. Oh, and chocolate is included to make the event even sweeter. Tickets cost $50 for the event on Sunday, Dec. 22.

National Menorah Lighting
Celebrate Hanukkah on the Ellipse, just across from the White House, on Wednesday, Dec. 25 at the . Those who can’t make it in person can also .

Maryland

AFI European Union Film Showcase
Through Dec. 22, the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, is hosting a film showcase that explores . Find the full . General admission tickets cost $15.

‘The Nutcracker’
The is hosting performances of “The Nutcracker” at Maryland Hall in Annapolis, Maryland, through Dec. 22 with virtual tickets available.

Holiday movie screenings
The Bowie Playhouse in Bowie, Maryland, is offering on Dec. 21 and 22. These film screenings include: “The Santa Clause,” “The Grinch,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Jingle Jangle.” Tickets cost $5.

Virginia

Christmas Illuminations
At Mount Vernon, enjoy festive lights and fireworks on Dec. 21 through 22. Those who get tickets to the event get to visit the grounds for free in December, January and February. General admission tickets cost $58 or $36 for those under the age of 12.

Jingle Jam Christmas Concert
Jammin Java in Vienna, Virginia, is hosting , plus an ugly sweater and holiday pajama contest. The event is on Saturday, Dec. 21 with tickets that cost $10. All of the proceeds benefit the Meant 2 Live Foundation.

Waterskiing Santa Show
For the 39th year, Santa Claus and friends plan to . For the best views, head to Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront on Tuesday, Dec. 24.

Have an event you’d like featured in Ƶapp’s Things to do in the D.C. area weekly guide? Let us know!

Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

© 2024 Ƶapp. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

Michelle Goldchain

Michelle Goldchain’s reporting has focused primarily on the D.C. area, previously working as Editor of Curbed DC for Vox Media and Audience Growth & Engagement Editor for Washington City Paper. She is the author of “D.C. by Metro: A History & Guide.” She also reports for 'Artsplained' on YouTube.

Federal News Network Logo
Log in to your Ƶapp account for notifications and alerts customized for you.