End your year on the right note with the Olympia Symphony Orchestra

Originally published on The JOLT News on December 22, 2025

Typically, I am sort of a homebody on New Year’s Eve, and I spend most of the day watching my collection of traditional films (contact me if you would like the list), journaling, reflecting, and preparing my heart for the new year. Yet, in a year so full of incredible art, I cannot help but want to adjust my customs just a little bit to make room for one last show and additional tradition. 

This is why I am so abundantly grateful that our Olympia Symphony Orchestra will be hosting a fun New Year’s Eve concert that is early enough in the day where I can still be home to enjoy the things I hold near and dear. 

Tickets are still on sale, and they might just make a fun Christmas gift, especially for people who get the post-Christmas blues, all too easily.  

Join me, dear readers, in ending your year on the right note with the Olympia Symphony Orchestra.   

Preview 

Chatting with Communications Manager Mando Surita III, I got to learn about OSO‘s New Year’s traditions, here’s some sneak peaks for this program and get a well-rounded picture of why this event really is worthwhile. 

 This year’s concert is purposely designed around the concept of dance. As Surita describes it, “You are going to want to get out of your seat and dance!” After a year such as this, how refreshing would it be to finish it off dancing?  

Surita shared an exclusive tidbit with me: amongst these diverse favorites will be a piece written by a composer from the Pacific Northwest who “grew up and got their start in music here.” I cannot wait to see who it is and how this piece fits into the program, and I know it’ll be good because OSO never disappoints. 

 The event description reads: 

"Ring in the New Year with music, movement, and a touch of mystery.​​ This is not your average concert — it’s Olympia’s most elegant party, and you’re invited. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration, as we waltz, swirl, and strut into 2026 together. Under the baton of Alexandra Arrieche, the Olympia Symphony presents a glittering masquerade ball with music to match — from the graceful charm of Strauss and the timeless ballet beauty of Tchaikovsky, to the playful energy of Kabalevsky, and bold, iconic hits by Cher, Lady Gaga, and more. 

​People often ask me how I have the zeal to consistently dress up and attend shows. Often I tell them because I love performances so much, and making them part of my routine has allowed me to become accustomed to it all. There is, however, another reason: I love to dress up. It’s true — whenever I have the opportunity to wear one of my dresses or do my hair nice, it makes me feel special. Dressing up and feeling special is empowering and I cannot think of a greater gift you can give yourself than dressing up on New Year’s Eve and having fun. 

This concert will provide a safe and satisfying opportunity to do both. Dressing up is optional, so is wearing a masquerade mask, but life is short, so why not? There is going to be a photo booth to help you capture the moment.  

 OSO’s note of gratitude 

As we come to the end of the year, OSO would like to share this reflection with you: 

"We would not be here if it was not for patrons! You are just as much a part of the OSO as we are. We want to thank you for supporting us by coming to our concerts, by donating, and by giving us your time every single person makes the OSO what it is." 

Learn about OSO here. 

Personal note 

Many of my traditions are founded in concepts or in the specific films made by Rob Reiner. On New Year’s Eve, I start my all-time favorite film, “Sleepless in Seattle,” at the exact moment. I need to in order to countdown to the new year at the same time they do in the film. “When Harry Met Sally” reminds me of that sort of seize the day spirit and going for what you want and love each day, especially on New Year’s Eve. Reiner’s films have taught me many lessons and it breaks my heart, knowing what recently happened to him and his wife. May the Reiner couple rest in peace, may their family and friends find healing in this moment, and may we live as if our lives were a Reiner film.

https://www.thejoltnews.com/stories/end-your-year-on-the-right-note-with-the-olympia-symphony-orchestra,27442