Kick 2021 off with something fun, courtesy of our weekend roundup!

Happy New Year! As we step into 2021, we're looking ahead to all the fun things the DMV has in store for us! This weekend, there's a wind-down of holiday light shows and craft fairs, as well as a virtual edition of DC's New Year's bash. And if you're seeking out a clean slate, consider rejuvenating yourself with an early morning hike!

*Keep in mind with the shifting circumstances of COVID-19 that events may be canceled or rescheduled. Please refer to the event's websites or social media pages for more information regarding safety guidelines.*

Here's your weekend roundup for Friday, January 1, to Sunday, January 3.

National Bell Festival | DC Metro Area | Friday

DC's annual New Year's bash is here to ring in 2021! This year they're going virtual and hosting an exciting lineup to start things off right! The roster includes a heart-pumping kettlebell workout, a watercolor demo, and a soothing piano concert to cap things off. It's the 2020 palate-cleanser we all needed! Did we mention it's free? Find out more here!

Upperco Yuletide Village Drive-Through | 16020 Carnival Ave | Upperco, MD | Friday-Sunday

Support Upperco Volunteer Fire Company with a visit to their annual Yuletide Village! Now a drive-through, witness dazzling displays, including ice skaters and Santa's sleigh, all from the warmth of your car. The rave reviews speak for themselves! This is the last weekend it's happening, so don't miss it! Admission is $20 per vehicle (8 passengers); first-responders and military personnel are $18. Get the details here!

First Day Hike: Marsh in the New Year! | Elk Neck State Park | 4395 Turkey Point Road | North East, MD | Friday

Ring in the new year with a rejuvenating hike! Visitors can explore the two-mile trail of Beaver Marsh Loop and immerse themselves in the serene sights of Elk River. Dog-owners are welcome to bring their trusty companion along for the journey! If you feel so inclined, consider making a donation. Those interested will need to register. Check it out here!

Meadowlark's Winter Walk of Lights | Meadowlark Botanical Gardens | 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court | Vienna, VA | Friday-Sunday

Step inside an ethereal garden with Meadowlark's Winter Walk of Lights! Guests can stroll by brightly-lit grasshoppers, butterflies, and woodland creatures, with plenty of photo-ops at an arm's reach. Concessions and souvenirs will also be available for purchase. It ends on January 3, so go and see it before it's gone! Tickets are timed and start at just $11.25. Purchase them here!

Light Yards 2020 | Yards Park | 355 Water Street SE | Washington, DC | Ongoing

Yards Park's hit light extravaganza is back for 2020, and it's just as bright! Stroll along with cheerful holiday installations crafted by world-renowned artists. This year's installation is "Stars" by Amigo & Amigo, a stunning light-meets-music spectacular! Add to the experience by grabbing takeout from one of the area's local restaurants. Free to attend, you can enjoy the sights until January 10! Find out more here!

First Day Hikes at Sky Meadows | Sky Meadows State Park | 11012 Edmonds Lane | Delaplane, VA | Friday

A new year means new beginnings, and Sky Meadows State Park is the perfect place to start! Rise and shine for a leisurely hike through the park's winding trails, and learn about New Year's traditions along the way, like Janus coins or retro Victorian calling cards. You won't be able to beat the views of the sunrise! The park opens at 5:30 a.m. and comfortable clothes and shoes are a must. Get the details here!

Lights on the Bay | Sandy Point State Park | 1100 E College Parkway | Annapolis, MD | Friday-Saturday

Last call for "Lights on the Bay"! Through January 2, experience thrilling light installations across the Chesapeake Bay, with some inspired by historic Annapolis. Two miles, 70+ displays, and endless amounts of holiday cheer--it doesn't get any better than that! Event proceeds benefit the SPCA of Anne Arundel County, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year! Tickets are $20 per car. Buy them here!

The Gift of Art, Holiday Show | The Artists' Gallery | 8197 Main Street | Ellicott City, MD | Friday-Sunday

Not sure what to do after the holidays? Decompress with an art show! This peaceful exhibition showcases the original work of 25 local artists, all of which you can purchase from or simply look at for a cozy outing. Browse oil paintings, woodcuts, ceramics, and much, much more (there's also an online shop!) The show ends on January 3. Interested? Check it out here!

2020 Bull Run Festival of Lights | Bull Run Regional Park | 7700 Bull Run Drive | Centreville, VA | Ongoing

Bull Run Festival of Lights is still happening through January 10! Covering 2.5 miles, take a ride among joyful light installations at Bull Run Regional Park, and soak in the sparkling sights. Be sure to grab their "Holiday Specs" glasses to wear during the drive, a steal at just $3! It's never too late to bask in holiday lights! Tickets start at $25 and can only be purchased online. Reserve yours here!

Holidays in the Park | Six Flags America | 13710 Central Avenue | Upper Marlboro, MD | Friday-Sunday

It ain't the holidays without a trip to Six Flags! Step into a winter wonderland at America's favorite theme park and enjoy the season's festivities, from hot chocolate to visits with Santa. Visitors can also catch Christmas plays and light shows, or take a spin on their favorite rides! There's nothing else like it! The yuletide spectacle wraps up on January 3, so now's your chance! Tickets start at $19.99, with membership and season passes available. Get the scoop here!

How are you celebrating the New Year? Are you doing anything from our list, or something different? Let us know in the comments!