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9 things to do New Year's weekend across DC, Maryland and Virginia

Time to ring in 2023 DMV-style! Consider celebrating the New Year by taking part in one of these festive events being held across the area.

WASHINGTON — It's officially time to kiss this year goodbye and ring in 2023 with events across D.C., Maryland and Virginia. From parties at swanky hotels and bars to roller skating and art installations, there's a lot to check out in the final days of 2022!

Every week, WUSA9 is giving you the details on at least nine local activities to check out in your off time. We'll give you three ideas (and, sometimes, a bonus item or two) each in D.C., Maryland and Virginia.  

Have any more events you think your neighbors should know about? Email the time, place and description to WUSA-WebProduction@wusa9.com.

DC

Georgetown GLOW

As warmer weather hits the DMV this weekend, take advantage of the milder temps and enjoy a stroll around Georgetown to take in their artistic installations.

The event is in its 8th edition and features five national and international artists and their commissioned works, according to organizers.

Credit: Gregory Lee - stock.adobe.com

New Year’s Eve Cirque Du 2023 International Global Gala

  • Saturday, Dec. 31, at 9 p.m. to Sunday, Jan. 1 at 2 a.m.
  • Omni Shoreham Hotel 2500 Calvert St NW, Washington, District Of Columbia
  • Admission:$159 - $265
  • Organizer: Things To Do D.C.

"Since 2011, thousands of TTD [Things To Do DC] members each year have celebrated an exciting party at this majestic venue – home of major Inaugural Balls and international formals and functions since its inception – guaranteed to provide a night you will never forget!," organizers said about this New Year's bash. 

"Tonight, as we ring in 2023, we invite you to take a journey around the world without ever leaving Washington’s royal and historic hotel! Tonight, you will circle the globe and visit many continents as you make your way from one huge grand ballroom to the next."

The unique party spotlights an international theme for guests as they traverse around the Omni, prepared to celebrate 2023.

"Want to feel like you are a world traveler in a single night?  How about special New Year’s Performances from Asia, Africa the Middle East, Dublin, and Munich?  PLUS, as a special bonus like nowhere else: look up to the sky as we bring you internationally famed Cirque performers for a special Cirque Du 2023 celebration …. and much much more!"

Credit: Allistair/peopleimages.com - sto

Midnight Train to New Year's party at Metrobar

  • Saturday, Dec. 31 to Sunday, Jan. 1 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
  • Metrobar DC, 640 Rhode Island Avenue Northeast Washington, DC 20002 
  • Admission: $10
  • Organizer: Metrobar

"Bid farewell to 2022 at our Midnight Train to New Year’s Party!," said organizers from Metrobar. "Jump aboard starting at 8 p.m., with festive hot cocktails from our new winter menu and a live DJ to get the crowd moving. Count down to the New Year in our NEW enclosed heated deck, campfire patio, cabana firepits, or private igloos. And celebrate with a complimentary midnight toast as we watch the ball dropping on our 20-foot screen!"

And if you're looking for something a little earlier and a little more family-friendly, head over a few hours before for the all-ages party from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.! Learn more by clicking here.

MARYLAND

Credit: pinkyone - stock.adobe.com

New Year's Eve Skate

  • Saturday, Dec. 31 from noon to 5 p.m.
  • Skate Zone Crofton, 1082 Route 3 South @, Capitol Raceway Rd, Crofton, MD 21114
  • Admission: $22
  • Organizer: Skate Zone Crofton

"Roll right out of 2022 in style with this party in Crofton, where you can groove on eight wheels!" Skate Zone Crofton advertises on their website

Plus, they say the $22 cost will include admission, skate rentals, a slice of pizza, a drink and balloon drop filled with prizes.

Credit: Jacob Lund - stock.adobe.com

Gaylord National New Year's Eve Gala

  • Gaylord National, 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD 20745
  • Saturday, Dec. 31 9 p.m. to Sunday, Jan. 1 at 3 a.m.
  • Admission: $129.99 
  • Organizer: Hiball Events and Party DC Events, LLC

This celebration on the National Harbor will include 15-themed party areas, five dance floors, a DJ lineup, a midnight celebration, cuisine and more, according to organizers.

Credit: New Africa - stock.adobe.com

First Day Hike, a Maryland tradition

  • Saturday, Dec. 31, self-guided; anytime 10 a.m. to sunset
  • Seneca Creek State Park, 11950 Clopper Road, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878
  • Admission: Check their website for details
  • Organizer: Seneca Creek State Park 

Take on the New Year by starting it out on the right foot! Be a part of First Day Hike, a Maryland tradition and nationwide effort to get out into the fresh air and start anew with healthy habits in 2023. 

"Join us for an annual First Day Hike - Maryland's tradition for a fun, healthy way to welcome the New Year! Take a self-guided hike on the Old Pond Trail, an easy 1.5-mile loop. Registration is recommended to SCSPNaturalist@gmail.com," organizers share.

According to the website, Seneca Creek State Park is comprised of 6,300 acres which extend along 14 scenic miles of Seneca Creek as it winds its way to the Potomac River.

Seneca Creek State Park is far from the only park hosting this New Year's tradition—click here for a full list of all participating first-day hikes across the state, both self-led and ranger-led.

VIRGINIA

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First Night Alexandria

  • Saturday, Dec. 31 to Sunday, Jan. 1 from 12 p.m. to 12:05 a.m.
  • King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • Admission: 
    • Free for ages 0-2
    • Ages 3-10 $10
    • Ages 11-19 $20
    • Ages 20-64 $50
    • Ages 65+ $30
  • Organizer: First Night Alexandria, Inc.

Enjoy Alexandria while ringing in the New Year at this annual, family-friendly event!

"First Night Alexandria showcases the performing arts by giving exposure to new artists, rising stars, and seasoned professionals to expand their audience," organizers share.

New Year's Eve at King's Dominion

  • 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, VA 23047
  • Saturday, Dec. 31 to Sunday, Jan. 1 from 5 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
  • Admission: Check website for admission prices
  • Organizer: King's Dominion

"Does the holiday fun stop when Christmas ends? Not at Kings Dominion’s WinterFest!" Organizers share. 

"Surrounded by the shimmering lights and extravagant décor of WinterFest, Kings Dominion’s New Year’s Eve celebration will feature festive fun for all ages including the stunning WinterFest Wonderland Parade, dancing under the Eiffel Tower with a DJ spinning party tunes at the Grande Bandstand, and much more. When the clock strikes midnight, we’ll kick off 2023 with a bang — the area’s most AMAZING fireworks show! What’s more, enjoy FREE party hats and horns while supplies last."

Credit: Pixel-Shot - stock.adobe.com

Sixth Annual Wilson Wonderland New Year's Eve

  • Wilson Hardware 2915 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22201
  • Saturday, Dec. 31 through Sunday, Jan. 1 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. 
  • Admission: $40 - $350 
  • Organizer: Wilson Hardware 

"It's been another amazing year at Wilson Hardware and we want to celebrate ringing in 2023 with YOU!" said Wilson Hardware officials. "Enjoy our beautiful venue fully decked out in our Winter Wonderland theme, and start the new year with great food, drinks and friends."

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