Ring in 2026: Chicago's Riverfront Fireworks Display Returns with Music and Merriment

Chicago is gearing up for a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration along the Chicago River. The city's iconic fireworks display, which attracts thousands of revelers, will illuminate the night sky between Orleans and Columbus Streets on the Riverwalk. The free event kicks off at 5 pm on December 31, with a visually stunning audio and visual projection program titled ART on THE MART starting at 7 pm. The musical performances will get underway at 9 pm, featuring a diverse lineup of artists, including Grammy-winning rapper Chance the Rapper, blues singer Shemekia Copeland, and poet J. Ivy. While no tickets are required, residents and visitors are advised to plan ahead, as several streets and bridges in downtown Chicago will be closed for the celebration. Franklin Street will be closed from 10 am on Monday, while Wacker Drive and the Orleans Street Bridge will be shut off from 10 am on Wednesday. The Chicago River will be closed to boat traffic from 11:30 pm to 15 minutes after midnight, and several bridges will remain closed at 11:30 pm, including the Dearborn St. Bridge, Clark St. Bridge, LaSalle St. Bridge, Wabash St. Bridge, and Columbus Dr. Bridge. Don't miss this unforgettable experience in the Windy City.