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Your ultimate New Year travel guide to Washington DC

Washington DC transforms into a lively celebration during New Year, with iconic landmarks illuminated, festive events across the city, and a vibrant atmosphere that brings locals and visitors together. This guide covers the best ways to experience New Year in the nation’s capital.

Top things to do for New Year in Washington DC

1. Ice skate at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

Ring in the New Year with a spin on the city’s most picturesque rink, open late on December 31. Warm up with hot chocolate from the Pavilion Café nearby.

Where to go:

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink | Find on Maps

2. Explore Georgetown’s New Year’s Eve scene

Georgetown’s historic streets are filled with twinkling lights, boutique shops, and riverside restaurants offering special menus and live entertainment for New Year’s Eve.

Where to go:

Georgetown | Find on Maps

3. Attend a New Year’s concert at the Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center hosts special New Year’s Eve performances, from classical concerts to jazz and comedy shows. It’s a sophisticated way to welcome the new year.

Where to go:

Kennedy Center | Find on Maps

4. Family fun at Smithsonian museums

Several Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum, offer family-friendly activities. Smithsonian museums are excellent daytime options on December 31, though most close by 5:00–5:30 pm.

Where to go:

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History | Find on Maps

5. Dine at a rooftop restaurant with city views

Book a table at one of DC’s rooftop restaurants or bars for a memorable meal and panoramic views of the city’s fireworks and festivities.

6. Take a New Year’s Eve river cruise

Enjoy dinner, dancing, and front-row seats to the fireworks on a Potomac River cruise. Many cruises include live entertainment and a champagne toast at midnight.

Your perfect New Year itinerary

Day 1: December 31 – Festive sights and celebrations

Morning:

Start your day with breakfast at Founding Farmers, then stroll the National Mall to see the monuments in winter light. Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History for interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities.

Afternoon:

Head to Georgetown for boutique shopping and a cozy lunch at Martin’s Tavern. Take a riverside walk along the C&O Canal or warm up with coffee at Baked & Wired.

Evening:

Reserve a table at a rooftop restaurant like POV or Top of the Gate for dinner with city views. Afterward, make your way to The Wharf for live music, outdoor festivities, and the midnight fireworks display over the Potomac River.

Day 2: January 1 – Relaxed starts and winter fun

Morning:

Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Le Diplomate or Ted’s Bulletin. Take a New Year’s Day walk around the Tidal Basin to see the Jefferson Memorial and winter scenery.

Afternoon:

Go ice skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, then explore the National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Evening:

Wrap up your New Year’s visit with a Potomac River dinner cruise or a Kennedy Center concert, offering a relaxed and memorable start to the year.

Frequently asked questions about spending New Year in Washington DC

Yes, New Year is a festive and lively time to visit Washington DC, with citywide celebrations, fireworks, and special events at major attractions.

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