Good morning, Charlottesville.

Families celebrated the New Year early at the Center at Belvedere on Wednesday when the Noon Year's Eve event featured balloons, music, and a countdown.

The event offered a fun alternative to late-night festivities for local kids.

The Center at Belvedere hosted a Noon Year’s Eve celebration that allowed residents to enjoy lunch, music and dancing as 2026 began early — attendees joined at noon for a countdown and balloon drop as a relaxed New Year option.

Three Notch’d Brewing Company from Charlottesville announced plans to open new locations in Greenville and Columbia, South Carolina this Spring 2026 as it expands beyond Virginia.

Jefferson Madison Regional Library hosted its annual New Year's at Noon celebration Wednesday at the library, where kids rang in the new year with balloons, music, and a countdown - the event offered families a fun, kid-friendly alternative to traditional midnight festivities.

Local University students share cherished holiday recipes that connect them to home through dishes like Vietnamese Chicken Congee, Filipino sinigang, and Norwegian Julekake, as well as treats such as salty chocolate peanut butter brittle and pumpkin chocolate chip muffins.

In September, local firm Afton Scientific broke ground on a $200 million sterile injectable facility + AstraZeneca announced plans in October for a $4.5 billion compound that will add 600 jobs to boost the area’s economy.

Gas prices remain steady on local pumps today — offering reassurance to Charlottesville drivers as they welcome the new year.

Big Blue Door will offer improv classes for middle school students starting in late January at McGuffey Art Center.

The Department of Parks and Recreation will begin its annual tree pruning Monday at 8 a.m. on Downtown Mall, ensuring a maintained and safe environment for visitors.

Triple A urged locals to plan safe transportation before New Year's Eve parties, advising that rideshare options be arranged or a sober driver designated (Morgan Dean noted that leaving keys at the venue can help prevent poor decisions).

The advice follows December data showing high fatality rates from alcohol-impaired crashes.

No. 21 Virginia lost a thrilling triple overtime game, falling 95-85 to Virginia Tech in an ACC opener on New Year's Eve.

The Cavaliers will face NC State on Saturday, Jan. 3+ the contest will be livestreamed on ESPN2.

Special Olympics athletes from 13 states will compete in the Xperience Tennis Invitational this weekend at Boar's Head Resort, where they will demonstrate their skills in a competitive tennis tournament.

Virginia Tech defeated No. 21 Virginia 95-85 in triple overtime Wednesday afternoon at Cassell Coliseum in Blacksburg.

Ben Hammond led the win with 30 points while freshman center Christian Gurdak contributed 17 points (with 19 rebounds) to secure the victory.

The 17th annual Special Olympics Xperience Tennis Invitational will begin Jan.

3 at Boars Head Sports Club — a tournament designed to offer Special Olympic athletes nationwide a top tournament experience. Spectators can attend free and celebrate sportsmanship.

Gia Ray Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Tickets required — Enjoy an evening of soulful tunes with Gia Ray, highlighting themes of life's challenges and isolation.

NC State Wolfpack vs. Virginia Cavaliers Women's Basketball Game

5-7 p.m. — John Paul Jones Arena — Free trial available — Catch the thrilling showdown between NC State and Virginia in women's college basketball.

Susto Stringband Performance

7-10 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket info not specified — Experience the vibrant sounds of the Susto Stringband as they present their debut album.