Move over, Big Apple — for the first time in 50 years, America is closing the book on 2025 in Chicago live on ABC.
“Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” is most known as TV’s go-to destination for watching the ball drop in Times Square each midnight on Jan. 1. Now, ABC is hosting a Central time zone countdown centered on the Chicago Riverwalk, hosted by none other than Chance the Rapper, with fireworks over the river and an array of special guests to launch 2026 in style.
How can I watch in person?
Festivities are free and open to the public, although minors must have an adult with them, as Mayor Brandon Johnson has instituted a 10 p.m. curfew Downtown for those under 18. The main stage is at West Wacker Drive and North Franklin Street, while entrances to Wacker Drive will be at Wells and Lake streets. Security includes metal detectors at checkpoints, and visitors can only re-enter the site through designated entrances. Outside food and drink are allowed. Bags must be 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches or smaller.
For those farther up the river, Art on the Mart will project art on the Merchandise Mart facade from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The city’s website suggests that Upper Wacker Drive is the best place to see the fireworks, which will be launched from bridges between Orleans and Columbus streets.
Who is performing?
Starting at 9 p.m., Chance the Rapper presents a countdown celebration with a heavyweight lineup of Chicago stars, including:
- House music legend DJ Mike Dunn
- Rising star and city favorite DJ Mike P
- Grammy Award-winning poet J. Ivy
- Blues royalty Shemekia Copeland
- A special performance from Chance himself, starting 10 minutes before midnight and accompanied by a drone show
The CTA will be free from 10 p.m. Wednesday to 4 a.m. Thursday, which leaves plenty of time to hit up any of the many New Year’s Eve celebrations throughout the city that follow.
Where is New Year’s Rockin’ Eve streaming?
Viewers will be able to stream the event at home on ABC starting at 7 p.m. and replay the program on Hulu starting Jan. 1. The city of Chicago’s website will also stream the celebrations live.