Get Ready for the Annual First Night Alexandria

Here's a look at the New Year's Eve schedule for this family-friendly event in Alexandria.

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Events

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at First Night Alexandria—where music, magic, and community light up Old Town and the Carlyle neighborhood! For over 30 years, this family-friendly festival has transformed Alexandria into a walkable wonderland filled with live performances, art, and joyful moments for all ages.

Kick off the day at the George Washington Masonic Memorial with kids’ activities and family fun from noon to 4 p.m. Then follow the energy into Carlyle and Historic Old Town, where indoor venues—from museums and theaters to churches, hotels, and local shops—come alive with music, comedy, dance, and interactive experiences.

Get tickets here.

Here's a look at the schedule:

Noon-4 p.m.:  George Washington Masonic National Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr.

Celebrate with a dynamic mix of music, magic, comedy and hands-on fun from an exciting lineup of artists and performers.

  • Culture Queen
  • Groovy Nate
  • Mike Rose Magic
  • Let’s Make a Face – Glitter Tattoos
  • Titan Robotics
  • Saxy Entertainment with Antonio
  • The Line Dance Divas
  • GP Vibe Band
  • Comedian Andy Evans and Friends
  • The Grandsons Band
  • Comedian Sylvia Traymore Morrison

4-7 p.m.: The Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St.

Experience the charm of Mike Rose Magic, where clever sleight-of-hand, clean comedy, and crowd-pleasing fun captivate audiences of all ages.

4:30-8:30 p.m.: Carlyle Park Stage, 300 John Carlyle Square

Enjoy an energetic blend of live music and great food at Carlyle Park Stage, featuring standout performances from Taisha Estrada, Nasim Siddeeq, and the Late Night Superstars.

6:30-12:30 a.m.:  Market Square. 301 King St.

  • DJ Jaafar (6:30 – 8:30PM)
  • DJ Vektor (8:30 – 10:30PM)
  • DJ Lanie B (10:30- 12:30PM) 

7-10 p.m.: Westin Hotel Carlyle, Trademark Restaurant, 400 Courthouse Square

Enjoy the live music of Janine Wilson, Billy Coulter, Scott McKnight and Jim Faris.  A very special evening of acoustic rock songs, and the stories behind them buy these award-winning artists.

7-9 p.m.: Washington Street United Methodist Church, 109 S. Washington St.

Irish Breakfast Band

7-11 p.m.:  American Legion Post 24, 400 Cameron St.

 The Porch Delights (45 minute sets starting at 7:15 p.m.)

7-11 p.m.:  The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St.

The Common Ground Band

At the Waterfront: 

7-10 p.m. DJ One Luv

Fireworks (two shows): 7:30 p.m. and midnight

10-11:55 p.m.: Dream City Brass

With tickets just $10 and dozens of ways to celebrate, First Night Alexandria is the region’s can’t-miss New Year’s tradition. Plan your visit and get ready to welcome 2026 with creativity, connection, and pure Alexandria magic.

What types of performances can I expect? Over 20 acts will include live music, dance, comedy, and interactive art experiences featuring both local and regional performers.

How do I find the performance schedule? A detailed performance schedule will be available on the First Night Alexandria website. 

Do venues have capacity limits? Yes. Indoor admission is first-come, first-served, so we recommend arriving early to secure your spot at your favorite shows.

Event locations:

  • American Legion Post 24 - 400 Cameron St. 
  • Carlyle Square Park – 300 John Carlyle St.
  • George Washington Masonic Memorial -101 Callahan Dr.  
  • City Hall / Market Square 301 King St.
  • The Little Theatre of Alexandria (LTA) – 600 Wolfe St. 
  • The Lyceum – 201 S. Washington St.
  • Washington Street United Methodist Church – 109 S. Washington St.
  • Westin Hotel Carlyle

Frequently asked questions

-What is First Night Alexandria? First Night Alexandria (FNA) is a family-friendly, community-wide New Year’s Eve celebration showcasing live music, art, and entertainment at multiple venues across the city. Since 1994, it’s been Alexandria’s signature way to ring in the New Year with creativity, connection, and joy.

-When does First Night Alexandria take place? This year’s celebration will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, with performances and activities running from 12 p.m. to midnight, culminating in a fireworks display over the Potomac River.

-Where does it happen? Daytime activities will take place at the George Washington Masonic Memorial (12 p.m.–4 PM), and evening festivities will fill the Carlyle Community, Old Town and Waterfront with music, food, and fun for all ages.

-Is this event free? No, but this year in light of the economic challenges that have impated our community, the cost to attend is its lowest in decades – only $10 per person 2 years and older.  Guests are also invited to make a donation in support of local artists and performers, ensuring this beloved tradition remains accessible to everyone. Click here to get your ticket.

​​What to bring?

  • Your best NYE outfit
  • Mobile device for capturing memorable moments
  • Your dancin' shoes
  • Patience and consideration in crowded areas
  • Yourself...ready to party!

-​Alcohol: First Night Alexandria is a family-friendly, alcohol-free event.

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