Black Tie New Year's Eve Gala at the Luxurious Willard Intercontinental: DC's Premier and most luxurious International New Year's Eve Celebration
Attend on your own or with friends to celebrate New Year's Eve with free-flowing champagne and an open bar, delectable dinner and desserts, midnight balloon drop as well as live bands: Doc Scantlin Band, Latin salsa band, and Caribbean island band. Also enjoy a nightclub experience with our DJ spinning the hottest international dance hits, karaoke, party favors, midnight champagne toast, and more...

Event Date

Tuesday, December 31, 2019 at 7:45 PM

Event Address

Willard InterContinental Washington, DC
1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington DC 20004

Requested Attire

Black Tie Optional or Cocktail Attire Requested. Kindly mote that this event is strictly for guests 21 and over. ID required for admission. Please note that IDs will be checked/validated.

Event Description

Steeped in 200 years of history, the iconic Willard InterContinental Washington, DC, is the venue for Washington's premier & most luxurious international New Year's Eve celebration presented for the 17th year. Celebrate New Year's Eve in grand style & indulge in a sophisticated haven of luxury & service as we ring in 2020! 

We have assembled a selection of the finest entertainment from around the world to bring you an unparalleled and spectacular evening of sophistication and elegance. Attend on your own or with friends and join other outgoing internationally-minded professionals from around the city and the globe for a magical New Year's Eve gala. You do not need a date to attend.

Experience an unforgettable New Year's Eve party as you indulge in free-flowing champagne, an open bar, a spectacular balloon drop, & dance the night away to live bands & DJs. For dinner choose from a VIP sit down 3-course dinner with champagne or a dinner buffet of international cuisine. Also enjoy exquisite desserts by the pastry chef at the Willard! Celebrate NYE in grand style with each ballroom representing an international destination with entertainment from around the world, party favors, & More! 

Please note that as we continue to refine the gala, themes, menus, entertainment, bands and other gala details are subject to change.

Experience an Unforgettable NYE Party: Free-flowing champagne & an Open Bar, Delectable Dinner & Dessert Buffets, Midnight Balloon Drop, An European Discotheque Nightclub Experience with Our DJ Spinning the Hottest International Dance Music, Doc Scantlin Dance Band, Latin Salsa Band, Caribbean Island Band, Karaoke, Party Favors, Midnight Champagne Toast :::: & More!

You don't need a date to attend: Both singles and couples attend the gala every year. Whether you attend by yourself or with friends, you will have a wonderful time in the warm and friendly company of other internationally-minded professionals!

We are planning Washington's premier New Year's Eve experience:
Please see below for dinner & dessert menus, entertainment, themes & other gala details. Kindly note menus, themes, & entertainment are subject to change as we continue to refine the gala. We may add, change or remove advertised entertainment.
 
Let us transport you to a Late Night Euro Discotheque for an unforgettable nightclub experience as you dance the night away to the hottest club hits played by our DJs.
Experience a spectacular midnight balloon drop in the
Euro Nightclub themed ballroom!
Our New Year's Eve celebration also includes dancing to music by our Latin band. From the wild times of 1950's Havana, to the modern hot spots of Argentina and Costa Rica, enjoy salsa and other Latin sounds all night our Latin band performs seductive sounds of Habana! In our stylish and glamorous Gatsby's New York themed ballroom dance the night away to the Doc Scantlin band performing a variety of sophisticated music. Enjoy an exquisite evening of dancing as you celebrate the New Year!
Indulge in a selection of delectable desserts by the award winning pastry chef at the Willard InterContinental.
Celebrate New Year's Eve in style with free-flowing champagne.

Celebrate with party favors! 
 
Select from either a sumptuous 3 course seated dinner or a buffet of international delicacies. 


Also enjoy dancing to our island Caribbean band !
All this and more await you at our spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration!

Take the elevator to your hotel room after the gala:

The Willard Intercontinental offers well-appointed suites and rooms to help you relax and ring in the New Year in luxury at discounted rate. you encounter any difficulties making your room reservation online at the discounted rate, please let us know so we may assist you.

Event Agenda (May change)

The admission registration desk will be on the lobby level. Kindly note for your security, tickets will be released at the admission desk ONLY to the person who purchased the tickets upon presenting photo ID & the credit card used to make the reservation. If you have purchased more than one ticket, please arrive for admission with your guests. For your security, no tickets will be released unless photo ID matching the name of the person who purchased the tickets is presented with the credit card used to reserve the tickets.

Kindly mote that this event is strictly for guests 21 and over. Please note that IDs will be checked/validated.

10:30 PM After-Dinner Admission Tickets
Post-dinner late admission tickets include delectable desserts, themed celebration areas, open bar, midnight champagne toast, a spectacular midnight balloon drop in the Euro Discotheque Ballroom, live bands, DJs spinning international club hits, & party favors. Please note that dinner is not included with the 10:30 PM admission tickets. Themes, bands, entertainment & menus are subject to change as we continue to refine the gala.

Ambassador Level Tickets with Buffet Dinner & 9:00 PM Admission.
Admission at 9PM, internationally themed celebration areas, open bar with free-flowing champagne, international dinner buffet presented in the Euro Discotheque themed ballroom foyer representing the cuisine of vibrant international destinations, delectable desserts, midnight champagne toast, a spectacular balloon drop, live bands, DJs spinning international club hits, & party favors. Dinner is served until 10:00 PM with desserts served after that. Please ensure you arrive prior to 9:40 PM to enjoy the dinner buffets presented as dinner service concludes at 10:00 PM. Themes, bands, entertainment & menus are subject to change as we continue to refine the gala.

Presidential Ticket with 8:00 PM Admission and 3 Course Dinner 
In addition to general admission benefits, enjoy a 3-course sit-down dinner with champagne at 8:00 PM. We will be seating you with other guests at tables of ten (10). If you have a large group of guests and wish to sit together, please arrive together and let us know when you check-in so we may assist you. Table seating and live music is presented while dinner is served for the prelude to an exciting celebration. Please be on time as the last dinner seating is at 8:40 PM! After the Presidential Dinner service concludes at 9:30 PM, join us in the ballrooms downstairs to enjoy the New Year's Eve Gala! Themes, bands, entertainment & menus are subject to change as we continue to refine the gala.
 
The New Year's Eve Gala concludes at 2:00 AM with certain entertainment, bands, and aspects of the gala concluding at 12:30 AM, 1:00 AM, and 1:30 AM. Bar service concludes at 1:30 AM with nonalcoholic drinks served until 2:00 AM.

We Are Grateful for Your Support

We greatly appreciate your contribution towards the International Club of DC Inc by making your reservation. Your support makes it possible for us to present diverse cultural events to our members. Kindly note that your contribution is unrelated to the embassy or venue the event is being presented at and all proceeds from the event are used solely by International Club of DC Inc. to cover expenses related to presenting cultural events to our members.

Map/Parking

The Willard InterContinental is a sophisticated haven of luxury and service in the heart of Washington DC. The hotel, the venue of choice for Presidential inaugural balls, has played host to world leaders, dignitaries and celebrities, and now it is your turn to experience an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration one of Washington's premier and most historic hotels. We encourage you to reserve your tickets early, as we sold out each of the previous years. The Metro is just a couple of blocks away providing easy access.

Hotel parking is limited & available on a first-come basis and not guaranteed. We recommend Uber, a cab or the Metro as parking is limited. Valet & self-parking for event attendees is $35.00. Valet & self-parking for overnight guests is $55.00. Self-parking entrance is on F Street between 14th & 15th Street. Additional parking: Metropolitan Square on F Street between 14th & 15th Street, nearby garages, or street parking. Parking rates are subject to increase.

Please note that the map is enclosed below as a courtesy to you and for your convenience but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the map or the directions provided by Google. It is your responsibly to arrive safely and on time at the address of the event disclosed above.

Parking is limited to street parking in the vicinity of the venue. Kindly note that, as is the case in most major cities, the availability of street parking in Washington DC is limited and beyond our control. Due to the limited availability of parking, we highly recommend a cab, Uber/Lyft or other transportation option. The event start at the designated time so please allow sufficient time for traffic/travel/transportation and parking as these factors are beyond our control.

Event Notes

Open Bar With Fully Stocked Bars
{Bar selections subject to change.}

Spirits: Beefeater Gin, Dewar's White Label Scotch, Jim Beam Bourbon, Smirnoff Vodka, Canadian Club Whiskey, Sauza Blanco Tequila & Bacardi Superior Rum 

Wine: Hogue, Washington State, Chardonnay; Hogue, Washington State, Cabernet Sauvignon; 
Poema Cava

Imported Beers: Amstel Light, Corona Extra, Stella Artois

Craft Beers: Samuel Adams Boston Lager, Blue Moon, DC Brau Pale Ale

Domestic Beers: Bud Light, Budweiser, Michelob Ultra

Assorted Regular & Diet Soft Drinks: Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale, Coke Zero 

Natural Spring & Mineral Water: Fiji, San Pelligrino, Evian, Perrier, Restore


Exquisitely Delectable Desserts
{Menu subject to change.}
We have searched the world over to bring to you the finest selection of exquisitely delectable desserts prepared by the pastry chef at the Willard InterContinental for a memorable celebration.

Wild Strawberry Mousse and Champagne Gelee Verrines 
Shot glasses filled with strawberry mousse with a layer of clear champagne gelee on top, 18k gold leaf flakes suspended in the gelee 

Tropical Fruit Mousse Roulade 
Thin white sponge cake layered with coconut mousse and rolled into a log, topped with a tropical fruit chutney which consists of diced kiwi, pineapple, and papaya cooked with vanilla bean, all spice, and anise 

Dark Chocolate Passion Cones filled with Mandarin Orange Cream . Chocolate coated wafer cones filled with mandarin orange cream, and candied orange peel 

Festive New Year's Macarons 
Home made macarons decorated and airbrushed with festive colors 

Lucky Golden Eclairs 
Eclairs filled with chocolate pastry cream and dipped in gold chocolate 

Double Layer Mint Julep Brownies 
Chocolate brownies topped with a layer of mint julep buttercream 

Meyer Lemon Meringue Tarts 
Miniature vanilla tart shells filled with home made lemon curd and topped with a toasted Italian meringue 

Handmade Chocolate Bon Bons 
Assorted flavors of chocolate candies/truffles 

Matcha Green Tea Creme Brulee 
Our classic creme brulee recipe infused with Matcha green tea powder, burned using Sugar in the Raw 

Opera cake 
Layers of jaconde sponge cake, espresso buttercream, and dark chocolate ganache 

Mini Paris Brest 
Pate de choux batter piped in mini ring shapes and covered with sliced almonds then baked, when cool, they are sliced and filled with a praline pastry cream 

Carrot Cake Morsels 
Classic carrot cake layered with a vanilla bean cream cheese frosting 

Coffee and tea.

Assorted Cheeses, Sliced French Baguettes & Assorted Crackers also served. 

{Menu subject to change.}

Sumptuous International Dinner Buffer for Ambassador Level Ticketholders
{Menu subject to change.}
The award-winning chefs at the Willard InterContinental have prepared a delectable dinner buffet representing international flavors and culinary traditions. The dinner buffet will be presented in the Euro Nightclub themed ballroom from 9:00 PM to 9:40 PM. If you reserved an Ambassador Level Ticket, please arrive at the registration desk at 9:00 PM to allow time to enjoy the dinner buffets presented. Please note that as mentioned on the ticket level descriptions, the dinner buffets close at 9:40 PM. We are unable to issue refunds if you arrive after 9:40 PM and miss the dinner buffet.

Executive Chef's Selection of a Seasonal Inspired Butternut Squash Soup  
  
Selection of Organic Lettuce Leaves, Fennel Chiffonade, Vine Ripe tear Drop Tomatoes, Julienne of European Cucumber and White Balsamic Vinaigrette 
  
Greek Salad with a Julienne of Cucumber, Vine Ripened Tomato, Feta Cheese, Peppers & Herbs Vinaigrette  
  
Beef Bourguignon served with Caramelized Cipollini Onions and Election Braising Liquid 
  
Pan Seared Chicken Breast and Natural Pan Jus 
  
Sundried Tomato Crusted Mahi Mahi on Orzo Pasta 
  
Cavatelli Pasta Tossed in Portobello Mushrooms Volute 
  
Roasted Marble Potatoes with Parsley Butter 
  
Melange of Seasonal Vegetables  

{Menu subject to change} 

Presidential Admission with VIP Seated 3-Course Dinner 
{Menu subject to change.}
Make your New Year's Eve experience an extra special indulgence with the Presidential Level ticket option featuring all of the fantastic amenities our New Year's Eve Gala complemented by a special VIP seated 3-course dinner with champagne for Presidential Ticket holders. 

The seated 3-course dinner is presented from 8PM to 9:00 PM with the last seating at 8:40 PM. We are unable to issue refunds if you arrive after 8:40 PM and miss the 3-course seated dinner. Table seating is reserved for Presidential ticket holders until 9:00 PM. 

~~ Ribbon Salad  ~~ 
Petit Mesclun Greens, European Cucumber Noodle, Carrots and Red Beets Ribbons with 
Cranberry Vinaigrette Dressing. Served with Dried cranberries and Blue cheese crumble. 

~~ Entree ~~ 
Duo of Pepper Crusted NY Strip & Halibut with Port Wine & Citrus Beurre Blanc along with Au Gratin, Asparagus Bundles and Roasted Carrots 
-- or -- 
Chef's special vegetarian option, expected to be: Cumin Spiced Cauliflower Steak with 
Chick Peas & Ginger Scented Tomato Sauce, Jasmin Rice 

~~ Dessert~~ 
Trilogy of Decadent Sweets 
- Meyer Lemon Meringue Tart 
- Chocolate Opera Cake 
- Green Tea Kasutera Roulade filled with Wild Strawberry Mousse  Raspberry Sauce and Salted Caramel Sauce

{Menu subject to change} 

Questions & Answers

Can I attend on my own?
You don't need a date to attend as both singles & couples attend the gala. Attend on your own or with friends to celebrate with other internationally-minded professionals! Our members are friendly, outgoing, and a diverse group of internationally-minded professionals.
 
How do I pick up my tickets?
The credit card holder must arrive at the Registration Desk (together with any guests) to sign for & collect tickets with Photo ID matching the name on the guest list along with the credit card used to purchase tickets. Tickets will be released only to the credit card holder. If you purchased multiple tickets, please arrive for registration with your guests.
 
What do I wear?
The recommended attire is either cocktail attire or Black Tie optional. Ladies can wear a formal gown, cocktail dress or other appropriate attire. Gentlemen may wear a tuxedo, dark suit, or other appropriate attire. Have fun dressing up as you can't overdress for this event!
 
What's the parking situation?
Hotel parking is limited & available on a first-come basis and not guaranteed. We recommend Uber, a cab or the Metro as parking is limited. Valet & self-parking for event attendees is $35.00. Valet & self-parking for overnight guests is $55.00. Self-parking entrance is on F Street between 14th & 15th Street. Additional parking: Metropolitan Square on F Street between 14th & 15th Street, nearby garages, or street parking. Parking rates are subject to increase.
 
When should I arrive for registration?
Registration commences 30 minutes prior to the time of admission. Please arrive for registration 30 minutes prior to the time of admission so that you can check-in, relax in the hotel lobby, and enter the event space at your time of admission. If you purchased more than one ticket, please arrive together with your guest(s). Allow plenty of time for traffic/parking. Kindly note that factors such as parking & traffic are beyond our control & it is your responsibility to arrive at the registration desk on time.
 
What is the average age of attendees?
Each ballroom of the New Year's Eve Gala is a gala within a gala. With several live bands, DJs, and other entertainment, the gala is attended by guests comprising of a large age range. Whether you like to ballroom dance to a live band or dance the night away to our DJs performing the hottest club music, there's something for everyone!
 
Will there be a coat check?
The hotel will offer a coat check for guests attending the gala for a very nominal fee of approximately $6 cash per coat/item. Kindly note that we are not responsible for the coat check, as the The coat check arrangements will be handled directly by the hotel.
 
May I transfer my tickets?
You can transfer tickets to another guest as long as you contact us 48 hours prior to the event, and request a Credit Card Payment Authorization Form for payment confirmation. We must receive the signed Credit Card Payment Authorization Form at least 48 hours prior to the event with a copy of your photo ID in order to authorize another guest to attend the gala. For the security of the credit card holder, there will be no exceptions to this policy.
 
I have another question...
We are happy to answer any additional questions you may have. Please contact us and we will get right back to you!

Special Room Rates At the Willard
After a spectacular celebration, take the elevator home to your luxurious room at the Willard with special rates for gala attendees. Reserve your room soon on the Web page below, as availability is limited & rates are subject to increase. If you encounter difficulties reserving your rooms, please let us know so we can assist you. 

Click here to reserve a room at the Willard.

Due to the popularity of the gala, the Willard is almost at capacity. Available room rates are listed on the Web page above.

Please note that rooms at the Willard are handled directly by the hotel. Since we are not in control of the hotel rooms or any aspect of hotel rooms, kindly note that we are unable to be responsible for any aspect of your room reservation. Please verify your room preferences directly with the hotel.

Rooms available at the JW Marriott, located half a block from the Willard

Additional rooms are available at the JW Marriott at a lower cost. Kindly note that the rooms at the JW Marriott are in a separate hotel, so you will have to cross the street to reach the Willard for the gala. 

Rooms at the JW Marriott are handled directly by the hotel. Since we are not in control of any aspect of the hotel rooms, we are unable to be responsible for any aspect of your room reservation. Please verify your room preferences directly with the hotel.

Click here to reserve a room at the JW Marriott