Chicago River New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Riverwalk Celebrations

🥳 Chicago's New Year's Eve Celebration: Rockin' Eve 2026!

Celebrate the arrival of 2026 in the heart of the Midwest! For the first time ever, Chicago will host the official Central Time Zone countdown for "Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026," broadcast live on ABC.

Join fellow revelers for a spectacular, free celebration featuring a star-studded lineup of Chicago's finest talent, culminating in a performance by the city's own Chance the Rapper leading up to the stroke of midnight.

🗓️ Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025
• Time: Broadcast begins at 7 p.m. CST (On-stage performances start at 9 p.m.)
• Admission: FREE
• Location: Chicago Riverwalk at Wacker Drive (from Wells Street to Lake Street)
• Main Stage: Wacker and Franklin

✨ Highlights of the Night

• Live Broadcast Event: Be part of history as Chicago hosts the first-ever Central Time Zone midnight countdown for "Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve."
• Headliner: Chicago native Chance the Rapper will host the festivities and deliver a special countdown performance.
• Lineup (9 p.m. - Midnight): Enjoy performances from DJ Mike Dunn, DJ Mike P, J. Ivy, and Shemekia Copeland.
• Pre-Show Art: Experience a stunning custom audio/visual projection program from ART on THE MART from 7 to 9 p.m.
• Midnight Fireworks: Ring in the New Year with a dazzling fireworks display launched from bridges along the Chicago Riverwalk.

Come early to grab a spot along the Riverwalk, enjoy the stunning visual art display, and welcome the New Year with incredible music and energy!

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