New Year's Eve in Virginia 2025-2026

Virginia offers a diverse array of New Year's Eve celebrations, from charming, family-friendly events in historic towns to vibrant parties along the coast. Whether you prefer a low-key evening or a lively countdown, Virginia's cities and resorts have something to welcome 2025 in style.

First Night Alexandria

Historical Old Town Alexandria, with its Victorian houses, restaurants, and cobblestone streets, provides the perfect backdrop for New Year's Eve celebrations. First Night Alexandria, taking place on December 31 from 2 pm to midnight, attracts thousands annually with live performances, delicious food, a countdown, and fantastic fireworks at 6 pm and midnight.

The festivities span 12 stages in Old Town, and the fireworks over the Potomac River, launched near King Street, are best viewed from the waterfront. VIP tickets are $50 ($54.84 with fees), while all-access passes range from $15 to $35, with discounts for seniors and free entry for kids under two. Matinee-only access is also available for $10. Celebrate with fun for the whole family!

The Last Night on the Town

Virginia Beach’s Last Night on the Town will ring in 2025 with a free, family-friendly celebration at Town Center. Starting at 6 pm, the event features live DJ sets, stilt walkers, LED performers, and more. The main stage lineup kicks off at 9 pm with DJ Mista Cham, followed by Anthony Rosano and The Conqueroos, and headlined by platinum artist Hunter Hayes, leading up to a midnight ball drop.

For a more exclusive experience, the VIP Party at Cantina Laredo offers balcony views, a curated menu, party favors, complimentary drinks, and a champagne toast. Tickets are $220 per person or $415 per couple, with discounts available until October 21. Town Center’s hotels and restaurants will also have New Year's Eve specials, making this event a complete holiday destination.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg NYE Celebration

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Busch Gardens Williamsburg on December 31 with festive entertainment, thrilling rides, and a vibrant fireworks display to welcome 2025. Guests can enjoy all the seasonal magic of Christmas Town, featuring over 10 million lights, holiday shows like ‘Twas That Night and Gloria!, festive dining options, and over 25 rides, including the new DarKoaste indoor straddle coaster. The celebration wraps up with a bold fireworks display at 9 pm. Single-day admission starts at $29.99, or add All-Day Dining for $30 more to enjoy meals throughout your visit.

Kings Dominion Winterfest

In Richmond, Kings Dominion WinterFest is the ultimate New Year's Eve destination for families, running from 5 pm to 1 am. The event features live music, dancing, a countdown, and the most spectacular fireworks show in the area. The park is illuminated with shimmering lights and lavish decorations, offering entertainment like dancing under the Eiffel Tower with a DJ at the Grande Bandstand, a kids' countdown at 10 pm, and more.

Noon New Year’s Eve

Portsmouth's Children's Museum hosts a family-friendly celebration perfect for kids and families. Noon Year’s Eve Bash on December 29, 2024, from 11 am to 1 pm, is held at the museum's mall. This free event features party favor decorating, face painting, a juice box toast, and a glittery ball drop at noon. The celebration includes all the excitement of New Year’s festivities without the late-night bedtime.

Christmas Light Displays

Another family-friendly activity for New Year's Eve in Virginia is visiting the various Christmas light displays across the state. From early November to early January, locations like Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Busch Gardens Christmas Town, and Newport News Park light up with dazzling decorations, creating a magical holiday atmosphere for all to enjoy.