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Chicago Rings in New Year with Dazzling Rockin' Eve
24 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Chicago hosts its first-ever national broadcast of New Year's Rockin' Eve.
- Chance the Rapper, DJ Mike Dunn, and other artists to perform live.
- Free event with security checkpoints and bag size restrictions.
- Free CTA transportation offered on New Year's Eve night.
Chicago is preparing to host "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest" for the first time on December 31, marking a significant addition to the iconic national broadcast. The city will feature its own countdown, ushering in the New Year with a special Central Time zone celebration.
The event promises a star-studded lineup, including performances by Chance the Rapper, DJ Mike Dunn, DJ Mike P, J. Ivy, and Shemekia Copeland. Chance the Rapper will also co-host and perform his countdown set just before midnight. A unique audio-visual show from ART on THE MART will commence at 7 p.m., adding to the festivities.
Public access to the main stage area at West Wacker Drive and North Franklin Street begins at 5 p.m., with security checkpoints and bag restrictions in effect. For public safety, the event may close once capacity is reached. The city is encouraging public transportation, offering free CTA rides from 10 p.m. on December 31 to 4 a.m. on January 1, with significant street and river closures planned for the celebration.
