Looking for New Years Eve fireworks in the Washington, DC area? There are plenty of lively ways to celebrate in the nation’s capital (see a guide to New Years Eve events in DC), but if you feel like ringing in the year with a brilliant fireworks display, you’ll have to head to the Maryland suburbs. or Northern Virginia. The following venues host some of the most spectacular parties in the region, beginning with live entertainment and culminating with a colorful fireworks display at midnight.
- Alexandria, VA – First Night Alexandria – The family celebration of New Years Eve features musical performances at dozens of indoor venues in Old Town Alexandria. The end of the event, at midnight, includes a beautiful fireworks display over the Potomac River. The best views are from anywhere along the Potomac River shoreline. Tickets are required to attend indoor performances.
- Annapolis, MD – Annapolis New Years Eve – The City Dock comes to life with a wide range of musical entertainment. The celebration includes two fireworks, an early show at 7:30 pm for families and early risers, and a spectacular midnight show to celebrate the new year. The best viewing areas are aboard a boat in the city harbor, from Susan Campbell Park and along Main Street. Other suggested areas include public spaces northeast of the River Severn, any of the street parks facing Spa Creek. Tickets are not required.
- Baltimore, MD – Baltimore New Years Eve Spectacular – Celebrate the new year with a bang in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Many restaurants offer spectacular views and host special events. There will be live music and entertainment at the Inner Harbor Amphitheater from 9 pm to 12:30 am. The best views are found aboard a cruise ship or anywhere within close range of the port. The fireworks display and live entertainment are free.
- Winchester, VA – First Night Winchester – The largest family New Year’s Eve celebration in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley offers live entertainment throughout the night. Performances include folk, jazz, bluegrass, oldies, puppet shows, children’s events, and more. Local restaurants offer discounts at First Taste of Winchester. At midnight, the community welcomes the New Year with the official “Apple Drop” display and midnight fireworks. The best views are from the Loudoun Street Mall. Tickets are required to attend indoor performances.
- National Harbor – Big Night DC – Watch New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Potomac at a gala at the Gaylord National Resort and Hotel in National Harbor. The Big Night DC party will include five dance floors, fifteen themed party areas, a lineup packed with bands and DJs, and that fireworks view. More than 9,000 attend this party with drinks, food and entertainment. Tickets start at $ 99 and go up as the event approaches, with different prices for different ticket options.
More about holidays in the capital region
- Top 10 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays in Washington. DC.
- Great vacation getaways near Washington, DC.
- 10 things to do on New Year’s Day in Washington, DC.
