Watching fireworks is one of the many activities you can do this New Year’s Eve. | Photo via Pexels
Ring in the new year with these four events on New Year’s Eve around Northern Virginia.
The Rocknoceros New Year’s Eve Ball | Times vary | Jammin Java, Vienna | $15 | The annual Rocknoceros New Year’s Eve Ball is the perfect way for families to ring in the new year. The show includes an apple juice toast, New Year’s resolutions, and the famous ball drop.
New York Rangers at Washington Capitals | 12:30 p.m. | Capital One Arena, Washington, DC | $95+ | Get ready for the puck drop. Celebrate New Year’s Eve by watching the Caps take on the similarly ranked Rangers.
New Years Eve at The Branch | 1-9:45 p.m. | The Branch, Leesburg | $151 | Book a dedicated time for you and your family to enjoy an exciting bowling session, complete with pizza and unlimited soft drinks, this New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise from Alexandria | 5 p.m. | Alexandria City Marina, Alexandria | $88+ | Float along the Potomac River for this 1.5-hour cruise with complimentary champagne, a beer + wine package, music entertainment, and a great view of the fireworks.
Want to catch the Alexandria New Year’s Eve fireworks without getting on a boat? There will be two showings — one at 7:30 p.m. and one at midnight. There will also be other family-friendly activities during that day that you can participate in.
The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm in Loudoun County, which closed in August, will be transforming into Restaurant Foraged. at Patowmack Farm. The team behind Foraged. in Baltimore is taking over the spot. This restaurant, like the original spot, will specialize in seasonal cuisine and is expected to open in early 2026. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Holiday
There’s still time left to participate in the annual Del Ray Holiday Scavenger Hunt. Fill out this form by Saturday, Jan. 3, and drop it off through the snowman’s mouth at Pat Miller Neighborhood Square. What’s in it for you? Potential $50 gift cards to local businesses and bragging rights. (ALXnow)
Real Estate
This historic home in Alexandria is not to be missed. Built in the 1760s, this house is located on two acres of land just 200 feet from the Potomac River. Learn more about the historical significance of this stunning property. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Travel
Ashburn is now home to a new Hilton hotel at 44870 Lakeview Overlook Plaza. This hotel offers 122 rooms and is also pet-friendly — perfect for a staycation or friends who might be visiting. (The Burn)
Coming Soon
The new year will bring new exhibits to many of the Smithsonian museums. Here are 19 to check out in 2026. I’m most looking forward to the photography exhibit coming to the Portarit Gallery in May. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
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Job
Our Job Board has 240,000+ active job listings. Explore openings in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and beyond. Roles for all experience levels are hiring now. Find a new gig for 2026.
We’ve noticed that many of you tend to gravitate towards events at parks in Fairfax County. They recently posted stats from the year 2025, and you can see the full breakdown above. Were you one of the 16.3 million visitors this year? If so, which park did you attend?
Ten minute daily language lessons, on sale for 65% off with Babbel’s New Year’s Sale. Unlock expert-built lessons, podcasts, and speaking practice to make learning a new language feel easy and actually stick — it’s a smart way to kick off the year with a habit you’ll be proud you started.*
Welcome back, NOVA. Did ya miss us? We sure missed you. During our break, I brainstormed some story ideas for 2026. As I work on my newsletter plans for the new year, I’d love to hear what YOU want to see in the newsletter.
Send me an email detailing an event that you’re excited about in 2026, something you want to see more of in 2026, something you want us to keep doing in 2026, or anything else you want to share.
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