10 December 2024: 2025 will be a monumental year for Capital Region USA, which encompasses the vibrant regions of Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. The world will be watching as huge global events come to the region and there's a plethora of exciting anniversaries, cultural events and openings happening too. 

Here's 14 new things to explore in 2025 that will unleash the true colours of Capital Region USA:

 

• 250th anniversary of US Independence begins:

 

The story of US Independence cannot be truthfully relayed without telling the huge part Capital Region USA destinations played in it. In 2026, Capital Region USA will be celebrating the 250th anniversary of US Independence and activities to commemorate this landmark anniversary will begin in 2025, including:

• The first major commemorative exhibition for America's 250th anniversary opens on 22nd March 2025. Two of Virginia's leading museums, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture in Richmond and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, partner to create Give Me Liberty, an extensive exhibition with a fresh look at America's founding.  
• Daughters of the American Revolution Museum in Washington, DC will open Fighting for Freedom: Black Craftspeople and the Pursuit of Independence on 29th March 2025 until December 2025. The exhibit tells the overshadowed story of the pivotal role African Americans played in the Revolutionary War.
• Located in Hopewell, Virginia, All Seazen's Boat Tours has launched an unforgettable voyage offering visitors a unique way to explore the extensive history along the mighty James River and gain insight into the upcoming 250th anniversary from the water. 
• The Maryland 250 Commission is spearheading a year long celebration to reflect the state's relevant contributions to American history including Historical Reenactments at iconic sites such as Fort McHenry and Antietam National Battlefield which will bring history to life. Each of Maryland's 23 counties will be taking part in a statewide mosaic showcasing local history and connecting communities across the state to honour Maryland's past whilst inspiring future generations to engage with their heritage. https://mdtwofifty.maryland.gov/ 

 

 

• From Hell's Kitchen to Southern Hospitality: Gordon Ramsay and Vegas Vibes Hit Virginia!

 

As if the official Birthplace of Country Music wasn't already thrilling, the opening of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol in December 2024 on adds a whole new dimension to Bristol. This internationally renowned gaming company brings even more excitement to Virginia's Heritage Music Trail, The Crooked Road, which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024. Don't miss the Bristol Birthplace of Country Music Museum, a highlight of this historic trail. 

Caesars Virginia: Where Roman Luxury Meets Southern Charm. Nestled in historic Danville, this brand-new destination resort brings the iconic Caesars experience to Southern Virginia. Opening in December 2024, Caesars Virginia promises a lavish escape with a casino, full-service spa, pool, world-class dining, upscale bars, lounges, convention space, and non-stop entertainment. Plus, foodies can rejoice with the opening of a new Gordon Ramsay restaurant, Ramsay's Kitchen, his first Virginian outpost.

 

 

• Visitation Celebration: Downtown Frederick's First New Hotel in 50 Years

 

The Visitation Hotel in Frederick, set to open in late December 2024, marks a significant milestone as the first downtown hotel in Frederick, Maryland, in 50 years. Housed in the historic Visitation building, an old Catholic girls school, on East Second Street, this Marriott affiliated Tribute Portfolio Hotel will feature 57 standard rooms. The transformation of this historic building into a boutique hotel not only preserves the heritage of the building but revitalises the downtown area.

 

 

• Capital Region USA welcomes global LGBTQ+ community celebrating its 10th WorldPride which coincides with DC's Capital Pride 50th Anniversary:

 

• From 17th May - 8th June 2024, Washington, DC will host the 10th anniversary of World Pride and the whole of the Capital Region USA is ready to showcase its LGBTQ+ attractions, hotels, restaurants and influential community characters to the world. WorldPride in DC 2025 will feature a vibrant and innovative slate of events and cultural programs across the region. From music to film, from the National Mall to Embassy Row, visitors will experience the world through the region's multi-faceted and multi-cultural community. 
• The opening event held at Nationals Park, will feature a concert by the legendary Shakira. Neighbouring cities in Maryland and Virginia are also excited to be part of the extravaganza offering special packages and events for guests. 
• During WorldPride, Northern Virginia offers visitors plentiful and affordable accommodations, easier parking, and a relaxed atmosphere, with quick public transportation access to DC events. Travellers will find LGBTQI+ friendly communities, historic sites, dining, and shopping in the immediate area, and numerous nearby vibrant cities like Richmond, Charlottesville, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach to extend your holiday.
• Maryland Pride 2025 is set to embrace a new focus on community engagement with highlights including the debut of  “Pride in the Park” a family day featuring activities and performances for all ages. Additionally, the parade will host a 'Green Pride' initiative promoting sustainability with eco-friendly practices and workshops on environmental activism, These new elements combined with the traditional parade promise to make Maryland pride the most memorable yet.

 

 

• Rod 'N' Reel Resort, A Chesapeake Beach Hotels, opens in Maryland

 

Rod N' Reel Resort, on Capital Region USA's iconic Chesapeake Bay, will open in early 2025 and is a traditional Maryland waterfront resort. Here guests can immerse themselves in the excitement of gaming, book a relaxed boating excursion or a fishing charter from the marina, embrace the unique beauty of the Chesapeake, enjoy live entertainment, concerts and other resort activities

 

 

• Luray Caverns celebrates 50 years as a National Natural Landmark:

 

Luray Caverns, nestled in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, has long been a natural wonder and will continue its 50th anniversary National Natural Landmark designation celebrations in 2025. Visitors come from all over to see its breathtaking underground beauty. From towering stalactites and stalagmites to the mesmerising Dream Lake and the world-famous Great Stalacpipe Organ, Luray Caverns offers a unique glimpse into Earth's hidden wonders

 

 

• Three new Washington, DC restaurants added to Michelin Guide: 

 

Three establishments in Washington, DC have been honoured in the Washington DC MICHELIN Guide allowing food lovers to make new culinary discoveries. The MICHELIN Guide reveals culinary gems throughout the years and these restaurants immediately join the selection as "Recommended". It reflects Washington's global cuisine. The guide features 25 starred restaurants and reflects 37 types of cuisines. The restaurants joining Washington, DC's highly decorated dining scene are Pascual, Cucina MORINI and Amparo Fondita.

 

 

• Maryland celebrates 25 years of Scenic Byways program:

 

Maryland is home to 18 scenic byways, including three All-American Roads, six national scenic byways, and 12 state scenic byways. In 2025 the Maryland Scenic Byways program, which guides visitors to hit the open road and explore charming towns, the splendour of nature and hidden gems, turns 25 years old. Bucket list byways include The Historic National Road: America's First Highway, traces the nation's oldest road across Maryland's diverse landscape, from Baltimore in the east to the mountains in the west, and Journey Through Hallowed Ground, a wonderful pilgrimage to sacrosanct Civil War sites, pristine natural sanctuaries and land considered by many to be sacred.

 

 

• Eupepsia Wellness Resort expands Agritourism Wellness Program for 2025:

 

Award-winning Eupepsia Wellness Resort, located in Bland Virginia, will continue to expand its Wellness Farm offering in 2025. Guided by the principles of regenerative farming, the resort offers a groundbreaking approach that provides guests with an integrative experience centred on prevention, and not only maintaining but also improving physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

 

 

• Washington, DC chosen as one of the host cities for FIFA Club World Cup 2025™:

 

Football fans from across the world will flock to the nation's capital next summer as Washington, DC will be one of 12 North American cities hosting the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ at Audi Field between 11th June 2024 - 19th July 2024. The 32 best clubs in the world will battle it out for the official title of FIFA Club World Champions. 

 

 

• Maryland's largest lake celebrates centenary: 

 

Since 1925, Deep Creek Lake, Maryland's largest freshwater lake at 11.5 miles long, has been a defining feature of Garrett County. Work began on the hydroelectric dam in 1923 and was completed two and half years later. Throughout 2025, the county will be celebrating Deep Creek Lake's rich heritage with events and projects. Events include a parade float, a sailboat regatta, a Picture Party and an adventure challenge day on the lake. Deep Creek Lake is a four season destination, offering an abundance of activities including fishing, hiking, skiing, golf and rafting. More information here. 

 

• A century of splashing ponies: 

 

In 2025, Virginia proudly celebrates the 100-year anniversary of the Chincoteague Pony Swim & Auction, a spectacular event that captures the heart and soul of the community. This annual tradition, held each July, is more than just a visual feast; it tells the story of a town deeply connected to its wild ponies. The Saltwater Cowboys, volunteer fire department members, herd and care for the ponies year-round, with many coming from families who have lived alongside these majestic animals for generations. Nestled off the beaten path yet only a few hours from Washington, D.C., Chincoteague is a charming town with a rich history, embodied in the lives of its dedicated locals.

 

• Giant Pandas to make debut at Washington, DC's Smithsonian National Zoo:

 

Following a collaborative conservation effort between Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute and China Conservation and Research Center for Giant Pandas, two Giant Pandas, two-year old Bao Li (male) and Qing Bao (female), arrived by the Fedex Panda Express in October. They will remain in quarantine and adapt to their new surroundings until the Zoo will relaunch the Giant Panda Cam for their public debut 24 January 2025. This will be the only place in the USA where Giant Pandas can be viewed for free.

 

• Pharrell Makes Waves with Atlantic Park whilst Kings Dominion celebrates 50th by opening the world's tallest and longest roller coaster

 

Virginia is buzzing with excitement for 2025, with a host of new entertainment and attractions opening up or celebrating anniversaries. We see the new dining experiences and all year surf complex, Wave Garden, at Atlantic Park. New rides and 50th anniversaries of Kings Dominion and Busch Gardens Williamsburg in 2025. In 2025, Kings Dominion will unveil Rapterra, the world's tallest and longest launched wing coaster This thrilling new ride will feature a 0-65 mph launch in just four seconds, reaching heights of 145 feet and offering three inversions: a dive loop, a flat spin corkscrew, and a 360-degree raptor roll.

 

About Capital Region USA:

Capital Region USA (CRUSA) is the official regional destination marketing organisation promoting Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland internationally, in partnership with Destination DC, the Virginia Tourism Corporation, the Maryland Office of Tourism Development and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. CRUSA is a 501c3 non-profit organisation founded in 1997.

 

For further information on Capital Region USA, visit www.capitalregionusa.org. 

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