For the first time in more than five decades of confetti blasts, televised pop performances and Ryan Seacrest’s annual marathon, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is adding a brand-new live countdown—and this time, Chicago will take the spotlight. ABC and Dick Clark Productions announced today that this year’s broadcast will include a full Central time celebration live from the city, marking a huge expansion for the most-watched New Year’s Eve special in the country.
The show has long owned the East Coast midnight from Times Square in New York City and, in recent years, added a Spanish-language Atlantic Time countdown from Puerto Rico. Now Chicago joins that shortlist, bringing the riverfront’s skyline to ABC’s national audience. A new host, live performance and roving on-the-ground segments will anchor the broadcast, with more details coming soon.
"WLS-TV is 'Chicago proud' to have the opportunity to showcase the amazing city of Chicago on Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin' Eve," said John Idler, the station’s general manager and president. Idler also promised "a spectacular fireworks display centered on the iconic bridges that cross the Chicago River and cascade over the city's world-class architecture."
Barry Adelman, EVP at Dick Clark Productions and a Chicago native called the addition a "new chapter" for the long-running show, adding that the city’s "incredible energy, culture and spirit" will now play out in real time for millions of viewers.
"We are proud to announce that Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve is coming to the greatest city in the world," said Mayor Brandon Johnson in an official statement. "We could not be more excited to welcome in the new year with fireworks, music and Chicago pride."
Chicago has never been shy about throwing a good party—but now, for the first time, the whole country is invited to watch its countdown live.