New Year’s Rockin’ Eve Comes to Chicago!

Light displays and fireworks at the Chicago Riverwalk have long been a well-loved New Year’s Eve tradition. This year, however, will bring something new to the Windy City: Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve!

This December 31st, leading into 2026, will be the first time ABC’s “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” will include a live broadcast from the Chicago Riverwalk, featuring a midnight performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Chance the Rapper as well as an extensive lineup of local Chicago artists.

As in previous years, the Merchandise Mart will also be projecting the largest permanent digital art project in the world, a Chicago staple you don’t want to miss!

ART on THE MART

Showcasing contemporary artwork across 2.5 acres on the Merchandise Mart building (almost as large as two football fields), ART on THE MART features free digital performances year-round. The light show on December 31st, though, is particularly magical, greeting the new year with one of the most quintessential Windy City celebrations: New Year’s Eve fireworks at the Chicago Riverwalk!

A well-loved Chicago tradition, this free show synchronizes digital artwork and projections with beautiful fireworks over the Chicago River. ART on THE MART begins at 7:30 pm, cycling through a wide range of breathtaking light displays until 11:55 pm, when a New Year’s countdown takes the stage, leading into fireworks at midnight to welcome the new year. 

Now with the addition of Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve in Chicago, this impressive performance is sure to add a spark of joy to your winter season, lighting up the night sky and city skyline in a dazzling array of colors.

Set Sail with First Lady!

After the snow has departed, experience a night to remember with The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise Aboard First Lady, returning in March. Choose an evening departure and you’ll experience ART on THE MART in a way you never have before — plus, learn about the rich history of the Merchandise Mart, the largest building in the world when it opened in 1930. Start planning your adventure now.