The new year is almost here, and Northern Virginia and DC are celebrating with lots of things to do. Whether you’re looking to take advantage of last-minute holiday festivities, celebrate New Year’s Eve with a dance party, or start your year off with a sunrise hike, the region has an event for you this week. Check out the most exciting events from December 29 to January 4.
LOVE Sign in Vienna
December 29–January 4
As part of the USA’s 250th anniversary celebration, a LOVE Sign will travel through different parts of Virginia for visitors to snap photos with. It arrives in Vienna on December 29 at the Memorial Fountain. Then, on January 4, there will be a Vienna250 celebration with a patriotic sing-along, music from the Vienna Community Band, and a community bell ringing. Memorial Fountain on Town Green, Maple Avenue, Vienna
First Night Alexandria
December 31
Say hello to 2026 at this annual New Year’s Eve day-to-night celebration with live music, fireworks, and family-friendly activities. Grab a glitter tattoo, then catch Mike Rose Magic’s performance of magic tricks and comedy. Enjoy a lineup of over 10 live performers and DJs, and witness two waterfront firework shows. Old Town Alexandria: multiple area locations, $10
Ultimate ‘80s NYE Dance Party with DJ D
December 31, 7 p.m.
Ring in the new year jamming out to music from iconic ‘80s artists like Janet Jackson, Run DMC, Def Leppard, Duran Duran, Eurythmics, and more at this fun event. Dress in your most impressive ‘80s attire and play “Name that Tune” to win prizes, and enjoy a free champagne toast at midnight. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $40
The Flaming Lips
December 31, 8 p.m.
Celebrate the death of 2025 at this Oklahoma City experimental rock band’s New Year’s Eve show. The band has blended genres like punk, indie rock, and psychedelic rock since its formation in the early 1980s. NoVA native Bartees Strange is the opening act. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, starting at $90.95
First Day Hikes Winter Fest
January 1
Get your blood pumping with this annual, statewide tradition of New Year’s Day hike events in Virginia parks. At Mason Neck State Park, start with a 3.6-mile sunrise hike before relaxing by a campfire with warm drinks and nature-inspired crafts. Bring the whole family for the animal adaptation story hike or the tree identification hike, where visitors can learn about local flora and fauna at a slow-paced walk. Mason Neck State Park: 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton, free
Toy Stories Art Exhibit
January 2–31
Browse art inspired by toys, play, nostalgia, and consumer culture created by a variety of local artists. Stop by the exhibit’s opening reception to meet several artists and the exhibit’s curator Gordon Thomas Frank. Del Ray Artisans Gallery: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, free
Full Moon Horoscope Tasting
January 2, 5 p.m.
Learn your 2026 horoscope at this astrology-themed wine tasting in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Held on the night of the full moon, this event includes three tastes of wine based on your astrological sign, a custom horoscope, and tasty bites with a mountain view. Bluemont Vineyard: 18755 Foggy Bottom Rd, Bluemont, $57
The DC Improv Comedy Night
January 2, 7 p.m.
Enjoy a night of giggles from several DC-based comedians. From standup to improv, this event includes performances from Lafayette Wright, Ross Benoit, and more. Tally Ho Theater: 19 West Market St. SW, Leesburg, starting at $28
Bluegrass and Cheap Beer Festival
January 2–3
Sip on cheap beer and enjoy performances from bluegrass artists at this free, two-day festival. Local bands Split String Soup, Radish, Big Thicket, and Seth Mitchell will perform throughout the two-day event. Union Stage: 740 Water St. SW, Washington, DC, free
ZooLights
Through January 3
Walk through glowing animal lanterns and light displays while sipping hot cocoa at the National Zoo’s annual holiday display. Ride on an animal-themed carousel, find your way through the new adventure maze, and ride on the National Zoo Choo Choo. Ticket prices support the Zoo’s mission of protecting habitats and saving species around the world. National Zoo: 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC, $9, $30 parking
Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Through January 4
Not ready to move on from Christmas just yet? Grab tickets to the closing weekend of this holiday Broadway sensation featuring iconic songs like “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas.” The National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $66.70
Winter Walk of Lights
Through January 4
Walk through this botanical garden transformed by sparkling light displays before the season is over. Sip on hot cocoa or a seasonal cocktail while admiring the half-mile trail of nature and holiday-inspired lights. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct., Vienna, $19–$24
ICE! at Gaylord National
Through January 4
Immerse the whole family in this holiday attraction featuring two million pounds of carved ice. This year’s theme is The Polar Express, with sculptures of Santa, the iconic interior of the train, the conductor, and more. The experience also features a synchronized light show, snowball games, ice tubing, and more family-friendly holiday fun. Gaylord National: 201 Waterford St., National Harbor, Maryland, starting at $26
Monty Python’s Spamalot
Through January 4
Grab tickets to this award-winning Broadway musical based on the 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail parodying medieval British legends. With flying cows, dancing knights, killer rabbits, and well-known songs like “Find Your Grail” and “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” this show is sure to keep you entertained. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $49–$199
Feature image of ICE! courtesy Jared Porter
