If you believe the Mayan calendar indicates that the world will come to an end next December, then this is the final New Year’s Eve party you’ll ever get to attend. Here are a dozen parties to make this Dec. 31 count.
Big Night D.C. New Year’s Extravaganza at National Harbor
With 15 party areas, this is one of the biggest events in the area. The party at the Gaylord National Resort features such live acts as Mr. Greengenes, a number of DJs, an open bar and six dance floors. Top it off with a room for the night at the Gaylord.
Info: 9 p.m.; $149.99 general admission, $199.99 VIP (prices may increase closer to the event); bignightdc.com
Black Cat New Year Eve’s Ball
One of the more affordable parties around this New Year’s Eve. Peaches O’Dell and Her Orchestra headline on the main stage, with DJ Dredd spinning on the back stage.
Info: 8 p.m.; $25; blackcatdc.com
Downtown Countdown at the Washington Hilton
Bands, DJs, dancing, a comedy showcase, dinner buffet and a five-hour open bar are some of the many highlights at this annual party. Third Eye Blind headlines, and locals the Dreamscapes Project kick things off.
Info: 9 p.m.; $159 general admission, $225 VIP (prices may increase closer to the event); downtowncountdown.net
Drive By Truckers at the 9:30 Club
A slight departure from the traditional dressy party, the Drive By Truckers wrap up a three-night run at the 9:30 by ringing in 2012. With legendary Booker T. Jones of Booker T and the MG’s fame.
Info: 8 p.m.; $55; 930.com
End of the World 2012 NYE Party at Eden Lounge
You can party like a rock star, or closer to an average Joe (but please, dress well). Go in with some friends on a $750 VIP package for eight (includes three bottles of liquor and a bottle of Champagne) and break a leg on the dance floor. There are also $1000 and $5000 packages. Or, settle for a $40 ticket.
Info: 8 p.m. (8 to 10 p.m. open bar); $30 to $5,000; EdenDC.com
Headliners Ball at the Newseum
Live entertainment, DJs, dancing, food from Wolfgang Puck, an open bar and access to the exhibits is the headline here.
Info: 8 p.m.; dinner and hotel packages vary, but a basic ticket to the event runs $195 for nonmembers, $180 for members; newseum.org
International Gala at the Omni Shoreham
Presented by the folks at Things to Do D.C., the International Gala celebrates 10 nations in eight rooms, with music, dancing, open bar and a host of your typical NYE fun, international style.
Info: 9 p.m.; $189 for early entrance, $130 for 10:30 p.m. entrance (price may increase closer to the event); thingstododc.com
International Club of D.C. NYE Gala at the Wardman Park Marriott Hotel
Yep, another internationally-themed party. Enjoy food, open bar, dancing and live entertainment from around the world.
Info: 9 p.m. general admission, 7:30 p.m. VIP, 10:30 p.m. late entry; prices range from $117 to $225, depending on entrance time and membership status; internationalclubdc.com
James Bond Gala at Washington Plaza Hotel
If you like your parties shaken, not stirred, then head out to this 007 themed event. Enjoy food, open bar, dancing, hanging out with Bond girls and, of course, martinis.
Info: General admission opens at 9:30, VIP (includes a seated dinner) at 6:45 p.m.; General admission $149, VIP $199 (prices subject to increase); euronetinternational.com
Masquerade Gala at Cities Restaurant & Lounge
Surprisingly affordable, plus you get to wear a mask, which is kind of fun. Enjoy DJs, a Champagne toast, and an open bar (9 to 10 p.m.).
Info: 9 p.m.; $50 (other packages available, and may increase closer to the event); 360nightlife.com
Passport to the World Gala at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City
What’s with all the international parties? This one is presented by the folks at Pros in the City. Lots of fun here: music, dancing, food, drink, caricaturist, karaoke, and a raffle.
Info: 9 p.m.; $149 for 9 p.m. entrance, $109 for 10:30 p.m. entrance (prices will increase); prosinthecity.com
First Night Alexandria
Nowhere is it written that drunken revelry is a requirement for New Year’s Eve enjoyment. For family fun, check out First Night Alexandria. Enjoy plenty of music, dancing, food, face painting and more.
Info: 1 p.m.; $20 (free for children 12 and under); firstnightalexandria.org
