You’re invited to a once-in-a-lifetime New Year’s Eve celebration in Chicago.
For the first time ever, Chicago’s midnight countdown will be featured live on America’s most-watched New Year’s Eve broadcast — ABC’s Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.
This historic event will mark the first time in the show’s 50-year history that a Central Time Zone countdown will be featured. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience in Chicago.
The free public event will be hosted by Chicago native and Grammy Award-winning artist Chance the Rapper.
Enjoy a diverse lineup of acts representing Chicago’s rich musical legacy, including DJ Mike Dunn, DJ Mike P, J. Ivy, Shemekia Copeland, and Chance the Rapper.
The midnight countdown will conclude with the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks on the Chicago River, lighting up downtown with a show-stopping display.
The Chicago New Year’s Eve event will take place on the Chicago Riverwalk at Wacker Drive from Wells Street to Lake Street. This event will be free and open to the public, no tickets required.
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve will air Wednesday, Dec. 31, live on ABC beginning at 7 p.m. CT.
5 p.m.
Event entry opens to the public
7 to 9 p.m.
Custom audio/visual projection from ART on THE MART
9 to 11:59 p.m.
Live music performances at Wacker and Franklin from:
Midnight
Midnight countdown with fireworks along the Chicago Riverwalk
Plan the perfect holiday getaway with these Chicago hotels close to the downtown celebrations.
End the year on the right note with these downtown restaurants perfect for a celebratory meal.
Cheers to 2026 this New Year’s Eve in Chicago! Find more things to do on NYE in Chicago with our guide to top spots for dinners, parties, live shows, and more throughout the city.
Explore the Chicago NYE 2026 guide
