City of Chicago Shares Key Logistical, Safety Information for Upcoming New Year’s Eve Celebration
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CHICAGO ~ Chicago is gearing up for an exciting New Year's Eve celebration, with new details being announced by Mayor Brandon Johnson, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), and Choose Chicago. The event, which will feature a diverse lineup of local artists and a special performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Chance the Rapper, will also mark the first time that Chicago will be featured on the iconic national broadcast of "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest."

The mainstage for the event will be located at the corner of W Wacker Drive and N Franklin Street, where performances will begin at 9 p.m. A custom audio-visual presentation projected from ART on THE MART will kick off the festivities at 7 p.m. Bally's Chicago Casino has been announced as the Presenting Sponsor for this live, in-person event.

In addition to his performance, Chance the Rapper will also co-host the event and take the stage for a countdown performance just before midnight. The event is free and open to the public, with no advance ticket registration required. However, all guests will be required to pass through security checkpoints and undergo bag checks. For safety reasons, only bags sized 12"x6"x12" or smaller will be allowed through the checkpoints.

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For those unable to attend in person, there will be additional viewing opportunities available via big-screen displays along Wacker Drive between Lake and Wells Streets. The midnight fireworks display can also be viewed from Upper Wacker Drive.

Due to related road closures, public transportation is recommended for reaching the celebration. To make it easier for attendees to use public transportation, CTA trains and buses will be free from 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31 until 4 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1.

For those driving to the event, discounted parking can be reserved at Millennium Garages. Pre-purchasing parking online can save up to 20% off daily and extended stay rates.

To ensure the safety and security of all attendees, the City of Chicago and Chicago Police Department (CPD) are coordinating efforts. Security checkpoints, including metal detectors, will be set up at both entrances and re-entry will only be permitted through these checkpoints. Mayor Brandon Johnson, CPD, the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC), and other safety partners will also offer a full safety and security briefing prior to the event.

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For those who prefer to watch from the comfort of their own homes, "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026" will air live on ABC beginning at 7 p.m. CST on Wednesday, Dec. 31. In partnership with ABC7 Chicago, portions of the Chicago program will be aired as part of the national broadcast, showcasing the city's local artists, neighborhoods, and cultural identity. A livestream of the event can also be watched on chicago.gov.

Accredited press interested in covering the event can request media credentials from DCASE by visiting their Press Room. The City is committed to spotlighting its local artists, neighborhoods, and cultural identity through this event.

As preparations continue for this highly anticipated New Year's Eve celebration in Chicago, residents and tourists alike are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, follow posted guidelines, and report any concerning activity to on-site personnel. With a diverse lineup of performances and special appearances by Chance the Rapper himself, this year's celebration is sure to be one for the books.

Filed Under: Government, City

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