Delicious Places to Spend New Year’s Eve in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., has an impressive lineup of dining experiences and parties to celebrate New Year’s Eve. From refined prix fixe dinners to rooftop countdowns, these events offer memorable ways to welcome 2026 in the nation’s capital.
Elegant Prix Fixe Dinners to Start the Night
Affordable and Festive Dining
Celebrate with an excellent value prix fixe dinner at Bar Chinois. The restaurant is offering a three-course menu for $55 featuring favorites like Red Chili Wontons and 1970’s Garlic Noodles, plus a complimentary glass of bubbly at both the DC and Arlington locations. Guests dining at the DC location can continue the celebration with a non-ticketed party, DJ, and midnight toast until 1:30 AM, making it a fun and social option for New Year’s Eve in Washington, DC.
Five Course Celebration with Live Music
For a more elevated experience, dLeña is offering a celebratory five-course prix fixe menu for $159 with standout dishes such as Lobster Tacos and Wagyu Empanadas. An optional $100 coursed beverage pairing is also available. The evening includes live music in dLeña ROJA, and the festivities continue the next day with an extended bottomless brunch on New Year’s Day.
Classic American NYE Dinner
Those looking for a refined but welcoming atmosphere will enjoy New Year’s Eve dinner at The Pembroke. The restaurant is offering a $145 three course prix fixe dinner, with a discounted $65 option for children. Menu highlights include Veal Saltimbocca and Smoked Lamb Rack, paired with a live DJ from 8 PM to 12:30 AM. The bar remains open until 1 AM, allowing guests to linger and toast to the New Year.
High Energy New Year’s Eve Events in DC
Formal All Black Celebration
Dress to impress at Smoke & Mirrors, which is hosting The All Black Gala with The Laureate Club. Tickets start at $55 and include light hors d’oeuvres, a midnight champagne toast, and a DJ spinning all night. The formal all-black dress code makes this one of the most stylish New Year’s Eve events in Washington, DC.
Champagne Forward Capitol Hill Party
Ring in the New Year at the Lobby Bar NYE Gala featuring a Veuve Clicquot midnight champagne toast. The event includes a 3.5-hour premium open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, and live music starting at 10 PM on December 31. Tickets begin at $135 and offer a polished Capitol Hill celebration.
Glamorous Rooftop Countdown
Celebrate above the city at REALM Rooftop Bar & Lounge in Shaw. Their Roaring Realm New Year’s Eve party runs from 9 PM to 3 AM, with champagne, a posh, glam dress code, and skyline views that set the mood for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve in Washington, DC.
Free Entry Rooftop Party in Reston
For a relaxed yet festive option, SYN Rooftop Bar & Lounge in Reston is hosting a rooftop countdown party from 4 PM to 1 AM, with the main celebration from 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM. Guests can enjoy a live DJ, party favors near midnight, and a complimentary midnight toast. Entry is free with reservations.
Waterfront Party with Prizes
Celebrate on the Wharf at Whiskey Charlie. From 9 PM to 1 AM, the $75 ticket includes hors d’oeuvres, desserts, a complimentary signature cocktail, party favors, and a midnight toast. Guests can dance to a live DJ and enter raffles for prizes, including a free New Year’s Eve night stay and a future stay for two at Canopy by Hilton.
Whether you prefer an intimate dinner, a formal gala, or a rooftop party with views, New Year’s Eve in Washington, D.C. offers something for every style of celebration.
