Haven’t made your New Year’s Eve plans yet? Forget heading into the District and waiting two hours in the cold trying to find a cab to bring you back home. Here are ten (potentially) walkable events right here in Arlington.
1. Clarendon Ballroom
The annual New Year’s Eve Gala at Clarendon Ballroom (3185 Wilson Blvd) features a large dinner buffet, four drink tickets, a champagne toast, midnight balloon drop and more.
Entertainment comes from high-energy cover band Liquid A, with DJ Image spinning party music on the lower level all night.
Tickets started at $65 and will rise in $10 increments as the date gets closer. Held from 8:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m.
2. Arlington Cinema Drafthouse
If you like watching the ball drop in Time’s Square but you don’t actually want to go to NYC, this is the next best thing. Arlington Cinema Drafthouse (2903 Columbia Pike) will be showing New Year’s celebrations in NYC and around the world live on the big screen. The 80’s themed party includes a DJ, entertainment and party favors. Admission is $14.
Food and drink must be purchased separately from the table-side wait staff. This event sold out last year.
3. Caribbean Breeze
If you want to ring in the New Year Caribbean style then the Caribbean Breeze (4100 Fairfax Dr) is the place to be. Bring in the New Year dancing to Latin beats, eating island food or just hanging out with some friends.
9PM to 3AM, $25 per person (party only) before Dec. 25th. $69 Dinner/Dance VIP Package before Dec. 25th. For more info call Padrino at 703-402-2608 or 703-812-7997.
4. Dance Factory
If you really like to dance then the Dance Factory (954 N. Monroe St) is the place to be. Join them for an elegant evening of ballroom, Latin, and swing dancing as they waltz into 2011. Singles and couples welcome, open to all. Door prizes, party favors, and much more.
$19 if paid by December 29th, $24 at the door. Held from 9:00 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. Call 703-528-9770 for more info.
5. The Clarendon Grill
C-Grill (1101 N. Highland St.) is throwing a New Years Eve party featuring the ever-popular cover band Gonzo’s Nose and DJ 2 NUTZ, who will be spinning during band breaks. Tickets start at $45 and come three drink tickets, a champagne toast and party favors. For those who like the outdoors, the Grill’s patio will be open and heated. Event will be held from 8:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m.
6. Whitlow’s on Wilson
If you would like to listen to a live band while you eat and drink the night away then head on over to Whitlow’s (2854 Wilson Blvd). Local party band Back to Zero will rock the house while you enjoy drinks and Whitlow’s appetizer buffet. Cost is $25, which includes the buffet and a champagne toast at midnight.
7. Crystal City Sports Pub
Whether you want to dance, play pool, watch sports or just hang out for New Year’s Eve, the Crystal City Sports Pub (529 S. 23rd St.) has something for everyone. The best thing is that there’s no cover, but if you want to enjoy their custom dinner deal then that will cost you a cool $39.99. The price includes a three course meal, champagne toast and party favors. Held from 8:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m.
8. 3 Bar and Grill
3 Bar and Grill (2950 Wilson Blvd) is hosting a “no drama” New Year’s Eve event, featuring a DJ, a complimentary toast and party favors. There’s no cover, but reservations are suggested for the dining room.
9. The Melting Pot
Come ring in 2011 with fondue at The Melting Pot (1110 N Glebe Rd) in Ballston. They will also serve a complimentary champagne toast with the dessert course. Party favors and souvenir photo of the evening will be available.
10. Fort Myer Officer’s Club
If you’re a commissioned officer in the military or a GS-7 or higher DoD civilian, this swank party at the Fort Myer Officer’s Club (214 Jackson Ave, Fort Myer) is literally just for you. Renowned singer Nancy Scimone will lead a dance-loving crowd into a spirited new year with her Red Bird Jazz Band. Reservations are $90 for club members or $100 for non-members. There will be a cash bar starting at 6:00, followed by dinner at 7:00, music and dancing at 8:00, a champagne toast at midnight and a light continental breakfast.
Flickr photo by Dave Hunt