WATCH LIVE: New Year’s Eve fireworks and Washington Monument light show

By WTOP Staff
December 31, 2025 | 3:07 PM

It’s almost time to ring in 2026 — and D.C. is celebrating on the National Mall.

The fireworks will begin at midnight to celebrate the new year.

To commemorate America’s 250th birthday in 2026, the Washington Monument will have a projection show and an illumination of a 250-foot birthday candle beginning on New Year’s Eve.

The illumination of the Washington Monument starts at 7 p.m. While the first projection show starts on New Year’s Eve, it will be lit up every night through Jan 5.

Watch the show live below:

Things to do in the DC area: The Fresh Start Series, Rock the Rink skate party … and more!

By Michelle Goldchain
January 9, 2026 | 4:26 PM

Start the year strong by heading to The Yards in Southeast D.C. for pop-ups, tours, workshops and physical group activities at the "Fresh Start Series at The Yards." This monthlong series of events is meant to cultivate the best intentions for the new year. The upcoming events include a giveaway cart pop-up at District Winery with a complimentary glass of wine for the first 30 guests on Jan. 15, plus skin consultations and samples from Silver Mirror.