10 Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2016 in Washington DC

Best New Years Entertainment in Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia

No plans for New Year’s Eve? The Washington, DC area has lots of New Year's Eve celebrations ranging from a lively night of partying to romantic dining and entertainment to family-friendly events. Following are suggestions and details of some of the best ways to ring in the New Year in Washington, DC, Maryland or Northern Virginia. Many events require reservations, so be sure to call ahead and check on specific schedules.

First Celebration Idea:Take a Cruise Along the Potomac River

Take a Cruise Along the Potomac River

Take a cruise along the Potomac River on the Odyssey or the Spirit of Washington. Enjoy an unforgettable New Year's Eve with an evening of dining and dancing while taking in skyline views of Washington DC. This is a great way to enjoy a romantic evening with someone special or to gather a small group of friends to party the night away. Read more about Washington DC Cruises.

Next: Take the Whole Family to a First Night Event

Take the Whole Family to a First Night Event

First Nights and family friendly events celebrating the New Year are held in Annapolis, Maryland, and several towns in Northern Virginia: Alexandria, Vienna, Falls Church, Winchester, Fredericksburg, Harrisonburg, Williamsburg, Harrisonburg and Charlottesville. Enjoy live music and entertainment by a wide variety of local performers and fireworks at some of the events. For all the details, see a guide to Family Friendly New Year's Eve Events Near Washington DC.

Next: Party the Night Away at a New Year’s Eve Gala

Party the Night Away at a New Year’s Eve Gala

Washington DC hotels, restaurants and nightclubs host some the region's liveliest parties, many with open bar and a wide variety of music and entertainment. Tickets may sell out so it is a good idea to plan ahead. Book a room at one of these hotels and enjoy a safe night of celebration. For all of the details, see Washington DC New Year's Eve Parties and Hotel Specials.

Next: Celebrate with Fireworks

Celebrate with Fireworks

Start the year out with a bang! Brave the cold weather and the crowds, celebrate at one of the region's fireworks displays. Most events are family-friendly and include a full evening of activities. For all the details, see 5 New Year's Eve Fireworks Displays Near Washington DC.

Next: Enjoy New Year's Eve Dining Specials

EnjoyNew Year's Eve Dining Specials

Looking for a quiet, romantic New Year's Eve? Enjoy a nice meal at one of the Washington, DC area's top restaurants. Many restaurants offer special menus and entertainment. Most require advance reservations. For all of the details, see New Years Eve Dining in Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia

Next: Enjoy Live Music or Theater

Enjoy Live Music or Theater

Washington DC is a prime venue for live entertainment so why not enjoy some great music on this special night. Attend a concert such as A Jazz New Year's Eve at the Kennedy Center, a New Orleans-style performance at the Hamilton, or a lively party at Georgetown's Washington Harbour. Advanced tickets are required and often sell out. See the schedule for a variety of live performances.

Next: Party the Night Away on the Georgetown Waterfront

Party the Night Away on the Georgetown Waterfront

Attend a New Year's Eve party on the Georgetown Waterfront, take in awesome views of the Potomac River and enjoy a variety of food, drink and entertainment. The restaurants along Washington Harbour join together to offer a special party package including food, drinks, music and more. Read more about Washington Harbour.

Next: Dance the Night Away at a Washington DC Nightclub

Dance the Night Away at a Washington DC Nightclub

The Washington DC area has a wide variety of nightclubs ranging from large multi-level spaces with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems and multiple dance floors to small and cozy spots with live entertainment. All of the bars and nightclubs are buzzing with activity on New Year's Eve. Ring in the New Year while dancing the night away and if you've had too much to drink, call SoberRide to get a free ride home.

For information on the region's hottest party spots, see a guide to Washington, DC’s Nightclubs.

Would you prefer a more casual gathering with friends? Watch the clock strike 12:00, ring in the New Year while gathering around a large screen TV at one of Washington DC’s sports bars. Enjoy a drink and some munchies while watching the ball drop in Times Square.

Next: Party at President Lincoln's Cottage

Party at Maryland Live Casino

Celebrate the exact time that the Emancipation Proclamation took effect at President Lincoln’s Cottage – Ring in the New Year at Freedom's Eve. Enjoy live music, desserts, and drinks (including a champagne toast at midnight). $100/person. Advance purchase required. 202-829-0436 ext. 31228, or email HMalson@savingplaces.org.

Next: Party at Maryland Live Casino

Washington DC Hotel Suggestions

Enjoy the excitement of playing slots, blackjack, roulette, craps or poker and celebrate the New Year at Maryland Live! Casino with a countdown to Midnight including a live viewing of the Times Square Ball Drop in New York City. The casino has a variety of great dining venues and live entertainment.

Would you prefer some alternate locations? See also, a guide to Casinos and Gambling Near Washington DC

Next: See Washington DC Hotel Suggestions

If you are visiting from out of town or want to stay overnight in Washington DC, it is a good idea to plan ahead and book a hotel room early. Here are some hotel guides to help you learn about accommodations in the Washington DC area.