We’re just a few days away from the largest family-friendly and fun New Year’s Eve celebration event in the region. First Night in Old Town is one of the most anticipated nights to watch more than 100 performances in over 30 indoor stages. This year the festivities will be bigger and better than ever, since it will be the 25th Anniversary Celebration of First Night Alexandria. First Nights are traditionally meant to celebrate a community’s local culture and there will definitely be something for everyone on this night! You’ll be able to enjoy everything from jazz, comedy, kids’ activities (and an earlier countdown for the young ones), multiple concerts, food trucks, prizes, and of course, the signature midnight fireworks over the Potomac. Retail stores, churches, museums, and public buildings are turned into performance venues to showcase incredible local and regional talent. There are so many options to choose from that you really can’t go wrong!  

Photo Credit: J. Clifford for Visit Alexandria

Here’s what you’ll need to know:

Schedule: 

December 31 | 6pm to 1am

• • Kids Karnivals: 6pm - 9pm at four warm indoor venues in Old Town, Del Ray, and the West End 
• • Live Entertainment: 7pm - 11pm at warm indoor venues throughout Old Town 
• • Rockin’ on the River: 10pm - 1am at Waterfront Park, 1 King St. 
• • Midnight fireworks: Potomac River at the foot of King St. 

View the full schedule here. 

Photo Credit: J. Clifford for Visit Alexandria

Tickets: 

The price of an all-access admission badge is:

• • $30 December 1 – 30
• • $35 December 31
• • Always: kids 12 and under and active military are free

You can buy them online or pick them up (while supplies last) day of at: 

• • Alexandria Visitor Center, 221 King Street (10am - 10pm)
• • Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N Union Street (2pm - 6pm)
• • Durant Arts Center, 1605 Cameron Street (2pm - 8pm) 
• • George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive (6:30pm - 10pm)

 2019 was such a wonderful year for Alexandria and a great end to an incredible decade. I think the reason we love First Night so much is that it really is a time to celebrate, but also a time to truly reflect and be thankful for what Alexandrians do best: community. In this year alone we’ve made so many lists for being one of the most magical towns, the perfect Hallmark movie setting, and one of the best small U.S. cities. The cobblestone streets and historical townhomes add charm and character, but the heart of this area is the people and organizations. We continuously feel so lucky to be a part of such a caring, fun, energetic community. So here’s to 2019 and bring on 2020! We have a feeling it’s going to be the best year yet.