From DCist contributor Amadie Hart
What to do on New Year’s Eve can be a yearly dilemmaone that rarely presents an easy answer. Restaurants book up early and often forgo their usual fare for a more creative prix fixe option. Bars and clubs are expensive, crowded, and can be difficult to get into. The big parties are also expensive, and feature notoriously long lines for the bar. So, what about taking a break from all the craziness and checking out one of the First Night celebrations going on around town? Admission is usually low cost or free and activities include bands, dancing, entertainment, fireworks, laser light shows, and more. Plus, since these events are billed as family friendly, they usually limit or do not allow alcohol, which means that you won’t be starting off the new year with a monster hangover.
The biggest first night parties are held in Alexandria and Annapolis, both of which culminate in a midnight fireworks display. Admission is $15 for Alexandria (children 12 and under free) and $15 for Annapolis until Dec. 30 and $20 day of the event, and $10 for children ages 6-12 (children 5 and under free). The Annapolis event features local blues legend Tom Principato and Baltimore-based zydeco/ska band the Junkyard Saints, while Alexandria features local roots guitarist Bill Kirchen.
Falls Church and Fairfax are both holding free events for area revelers. The Falls Church Watch Night party will include swing bands, a blues band, and a giant karaoke stage. The city of Fairfax kicks off its bicentennial celebration with the First Fairfax party, which includes ice skating, dancing, and a midnight laser and light show.
According to CapitalWeather.com, the temperatures should be unseasonably mild on Friday, with highs in the upper-50s and lows around 40, so the weather should be perfect for watching bands and fireworks outdoors. And just think of all the money you’ll save.
