As the District rang in 2026, people across the Washington metropolitan area filled streets and nightlife venues to celebrate the end of an action-packed year.
From navigating challenges amid the Trump administration to groundbreaking sports moments, rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, and pop culture trends that dominated social media and everyday life, 2025 left many DMV residents and people across the nation asking questions while hopeful for change in the new year.
For Emily Nguyen, a University of Maryland graduate preparing to pursue a medical career, 2026 represents a new beginning.
“I’m looking forward to moving out of my hometown and starting a new chapter in my career,” Nguyen told The Informer, while at Throw Social in Northeast D.C. on Dec. 31 to see rapper Moneybagg Yo. “Although the thought of moving away is scary, change and discomfort force you to grow. I’m excited to take that next step.”
Nguyen wasn’t the only attendee looking to celebrate in the District as they braced for life in a new city.
“I’m moving out to Vegas with my girl soon, so I don’t really know what’s next for me,” said Jared P., who declined to give his last name and attended Throw Social with a friend. “I’m thinking about starting a business or something like that.”
The New Year’s Eve event featured music, food and drinks, filled with people ready to usher in 2026.
“New Year’s Eve with Moneybagg Yo marks a new era for Throw Social,” said General Manager Jason McCarther. “Our new music direction is designed for the full spectrum of D.C., blending house, EDM, hip-hop, Latin, Indian, and more.”
Partygoers Talk Growth Goals in 2026
As the new year represented change for the establishment, the people partying in Throw Social discussed a desire for progress, stability and fresh starts.
Quan C., who chose not to share his last name, said the new year offers a chance for personal improvement.
“For next year, I’m looking to be closer to financial freedom and better with fitness and overall health,” he said. “I’m outside tonight, it’s New Year’s, and I had a long year. In 2026, I’m looking forward to traveling.”
Mable Sick, a student entering her final year at Pennsylvania State University, said her goals for the year center on wellness and preparing for life post-undergraduate studies.
“This year my goal is to be healthier,” she told The Informer. “I plan on trying pilates and focusing on finding a job in my field after I graduate in December.”
Vanessa Dionicio, a 23-year-old Maryland resident and Mount St. Mary’s University graduate, said financial growth is at the top of her list.
“My goals heading into the year are to gain a new source of income, be on top of my finances and pick up a new hobby,” she told The Informer.
Despite the challenges of 2025, Carlos Hernandez, who was visiting the District for New Year’s Eve, is optimistic about the future.
“I’m looking for big bucks, baby,” Hernandez said. “I want success, happiness and a lot of peace for 2026.”