Ring in 2026 in Alexandria, VA, with mouthwatering New Year’s Eve menus, live performances during First Night Alexandria, arts events and two spectacular fireworks shows.
Savor New Year’s Eve Restaurant Offerings
Pictured: King & Rye
Head to one of Alexandria’s many eateries offering chef-driven New Year’s Eve menus. Get warm and cozy in one of King & Rye’s heated igloos with southern-inspired holiday specials. Attend an ’80s glam New Year’s Eve party at Cooper Mill, one of Alexandria’s newest restaurants, or soak up supper club vibes with live music ushering in 2026 at the Birchmere. Savor special NYE multi-course menus at Vermilion and LaPorta’s. Remember, free Lyft rides are also being provided courtesy of the Washington Regional Alcohol Program’s SoberRide initiative.
Enjoy Fireworks Over the Potomac River
Enjoy a spectacular twilight fireworks show at 7:30 p.m. and a breathtaking finale fireworks display at midnight, presented by the City of Alexandria. Viewers are encouraged to soak up the show from waterfront restaurants or spread out among the viewing areas listed below.
- Canal Center Plaza (Center Canal Plaza)
- Oronoco Bay Park (2 Montgomery St.)
- Oronoco Bay Park (100 Madison St.)
- Founders Park (351 North Union St.)
- Waterfront Park (1A Prince St.)
- Windmill Hill Park (501 South Union St.)
- Fords Landing boardwalk (99 Franklin St.)
- Jones Point Park (Jones Point Dr.)
- George Washington Masonic Temple (101 Callahan Dr.)
Celebrate with Music and More at First Night Alexandria
Image credit: Jules Clifford
Experience the 31st Annual First Night Alexandria, the D.C. region’s signature family-friendly New Year’s Eve festival. This annual New Year’s Eve bash features live performances, music, family activities and more. This year, the spotlight will shine on the Carlyle neighborhood.
Luxuriate in a New Year’s Day Brunch
Pictured: Chadwick’s; Image credit: Scott Suchman
Kick off 2026 on a luxurious note with brunch offerings at Alexandria restaurants, from French-infused flavors to seafood specialties to riverside views and beyond. Head to beloved brunch destinations such as Royal Restaurant, Chadwick’s, or Theismann’s and start your year on a scrumptious note.