For better or worse, 2017 is on its way out. But you have one last night to celebrate – or mourn – the passing of this year and the beginning of the next.
Whether you’re looking to go all out, keep it low key or find a happy medium, here are a few picks for every type of New Year’s Eve celebration around the District.
Fuel up for a big night out
New Year Neighborhood Cookout Pre-Bash at Jack Rose
Beer, bourbon and BBQ – what more could you want. From 5 to 8 p.m., Jack Rose Dining Saloon is hosting a neighborhood cookout pre-bash to ensure that you start your night of partying on a full stomach. Included with your $50 ticket are BBQ favorites like pulled chicken and slow cooked beef brisket, as well as mac and cheese, tangy slaw and bourbon baked beans, plus unlimited beers and select bourbons. With more than 2,700 bottles of hand-selected spirits, scotches and bourbons and more than 20 beers on draft, your ticket includes a lot of bang for your buck. The brainchild of D.C. natives Bill Thomas and Stephen King, Jack Rose Dining Saloon will allow you to experience D.C. like a local for the last time in 2017. Plus, the party is on the heated rooftop terrace, and everything is better with a view of the District skyline.
Jack Rose Dining Saloon, 2007 18th St. NW. Tickets $50 online.
Avoid pricey cover charges
NYE at Boundary Stone
Finding a bar without a steep cover charge on New Year’s Eve can be difficult – let alone one with free live music. But Boundary Stone is offering an extended happy hour from 4 to 10 p.m. that will keep you on budget with $4 craft beers from D.C. Brau, $5 cocktails, $6 wines and $7 sandwiches to enjoy while you groove to local the jazz group Experience Band and Show starting at 10 p.m. You’ll find more than typical bar food here though, with entrees like potato gnocchi and ragu made with braised lamb shoulder or the house-made falafel burger.
Boundary Stone, 116 Rhode Island Ave. NW. Happy hour from 4 to 10 p.m. Live jazz from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Celebrate in style
New Year’s Eve International Spy Gala
If your go-to D.C. activity when friends and family visit is a trip to the International Spy Museum, then the International Spy Gala may be the perfect end to your year. Promising a night of “espionage and excitement,” this upscale event invites you to don your tuxedo or ball gown and dress as your favorite secret agent or spy. Go classic with a Jason Bourne or James Bond look or get a laugh by dressing up as Austin Powers. The most basic level ticket will provide you with access to a premium open bar from 10:30 p.m. to 2 a.m., as well as desserts and activities such as a temporary casino with blackjack, roulette and prizes as well as multiple DJs for $120 a ticket. VIP options include food from international buffets and start at $210. Whatever ticket you choose, you’ll be able to dance in themed rooms, channeling international destinations like Iceland, Istanbul and Caribbean Carnival. Seize this opportunity to finally order a martini Bond-style – shaken, not stirred.
Washington Plaza Hotel, 10 Thomas Circle. NW. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tickets start at $120.
