Though 2023 may be coming to a close, the weekend fun certainly isn’t. These NoVA events will get you in a celebratory mood before the ball drops. From New Year’s Eve parties to family-friendly musical shows, here are some things to do the weekend of December 29–January 1.
Bob Brown’s Final Puppetry Masterpiece
December 29, 10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m.
Step into this puppet-style winter wonderland. After 60 years of being the marionette master, puppeteer Bob Brown is retiring. You won’t want to miss his final performances, which will be packed with tricks and holiday music. You and your kids will be singing, dancing, and laughing along for the whole show. Frying Pan Farm Park: 2709 West Ox Rd., Herndon, $10, register online
Straight Jokes! No Chaser Comedy Tour
December 29, 8 p.m.
Seven stand-up stars join forces for an unforgettable show. Head to EagleBank Arena to see comedy greats Cedric the Entertainer, Earthquake, D.L. Hughley, Lunell, Bruce Bruce, Mike Epps, and special guest Damon Williams. This comical ensemble is sure to deliver an evening of belly-aching laughs. EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Cir., Fairfax, starting at $87
Special National Comedy Event
December 30, 7 p.m.
There’s no better way to end 2023 than with a laugh. Three nationally touring comics bring their talents to Ashburn’s Old Ox Brewery. Named the 2013 and 2023 best comedian in DC, Jared Stern is no stranger to the big stage. David James has been on HBO and Netflix. And Lucas Bohn has performed with Jimmy Fallon, Kevin Hart, and Dave Chappelle. Old Ox Brewery: 44652 Guilford Dr., Ste. 114, Ashburn, $22
Bela Dona Band
December 30, 7:30 p.m.
This all-female go-go band will have you up and dancing the whole show. Be’la Dona sings covers from generational R&B and soul greats, from Luther Vandross and Aretha Franklin to Rihanna and Beyoncé. You’ll hear powerful vocals with gospel, jazz, and rock influences. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $39.50
American Crush
December 30, 8 p.m.
This band is bringing reinvented rock ‘n’ roll to Jammin Java. For one night only, hear the powerful melodies of Queen, guitar riffs of Van Halen, and the hard rock groove of Led Zeppelin. American Crush is sure to deliver a dynamic performance, complete with sounds from the synthesizer, mandolin, drums, and electric and bass guitars. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, starting at $20
Rocknoceros New Year’s Eve Ball
December 31, 11 a.m.
Ring in 2024 with this family-friendly daytime performance. Toast with a glass of apple juice and watch the ball drop at noon, giving you plenty of time to nap before the real deal. The Wammie Award–winning Rocknoceros will perform upbeat songs that will make anyone jump up and dance. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $10
New Year’s Eve Around the World
December 31, 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
Ring in the new year at this family-friendly celebration hosted by the Children’s Science Center. Kids can make their own firework pinwheels, glittery slime, and 2024 headbands. There will be a countdown for the ball drop, along with a sparkling cider toast. Children’s Science Center: 11948 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, $15, free for ages under 2
Olde Year’s Day 2023
December 31, noon–4 p.m.
Visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria for hands-on craft activities, live artist demonstrations, and music. This is the perfect opportunity to support local artists. Torpedo Factory Art Center: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, free
New Year’s Eve Champagne & Chocolate Tour
December 31, 4–10:30 p.m.
Head to DC to toast to the New Year. The O Street Museum hosts an evening celebration with plenty of champagne, chocolate, and strawberries to go around. This museum has art and historical artifacts in more than 100 rooms. Some of the pieces are hidden behind secret doors. There are over 80 secret doors, so you and your party can explore this whimsical museum all night long. 2020 O St. NW, Washington, DC, $60
Holiday Bricktacular
Through December 31, times vary
Christmas may be over, but that doesn’t mean the holiday festivities end. The LEGO Discovery Center is full of family-friendly fun. Make your own LEGO ornament and ugly sweater, take Instagram photos with holiday-themed LEGO builds, and attend a festive workshop class with a master builder. LEGO Discovery Center: 6563 Springfield Mall Ste. 12004, Springfield, starting at $30.99
First Day Hike
January 1, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Start 2024 off on the right foot. Hit the hiking and biking trails at Motts Run Reservoir in Fredericksburg. The park has over 10 miles of multi-use trails, ranging from easy to difficult. The Laurel and Turkey Ridge trails are under 1 mile and great for kids. Experienced hikers or bicyclists can try the 6.8-mile Reservoir Trail, which runs along the water. Mott’s Run Reservoir: 6600 River Rd., Fredericksburg, free
Disney’s Frozen
Through January 21, times vary
It’s almost that time of year when “Let It Go” gets stuck in your head. This Tony Award–nominated Best Musical is turning the Kennedy Center into a winter wonderland. This Broadway hit features all the songs you love from the movie, plus a dozen new numbers. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $35
Feature image courtesy The Kennedy Center
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