Key Takeaways
- The city of Philadelphia will host a free concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on New Year’s Eve, featuring LL Cool J, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Adam Blackstone
- The concert will start at 8 p.m. and the fireworks display will begin at midnight, launched from three barges over the Delaware River
- Gates will open at 6 p.m. and no tickets are required, but all guests must enter through a secure checkpoint at Binswanger Triangle
- Public safety measures will be in place, including prohibited drone usage and strict bag checks
- Road closures and parking restrictions will be implemented to ensure public safety, with additional closures possible based on conditions
Introduction to the Event
The city of Philadelphia is gearing up to host a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration, which will also mark the beginning of the nation’s 250th birthday celebration in 2026. The event will feature a free concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, headlined by renowned artists LL Cool J, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Adam Blackstone. The concert is set to start at 8 p.m. on December 31 at Eakins Oval, with the fireworks display scheduled to begin at midnight. The city has announced that gates will open at 6 p.m. and no tickets will be required for entry. However, all guests must enter through a secure checkpoint located at Binswanger Triangle, where they will be subject to bag checks and security screenings.
Public Safety Measures
The city has emphasized the importance of public safety during the event, with several measures in place to ensure the well-being of attendees. Unauthorized drone usage is strictly prohibited over crowds, and attendees are encouraged to report any drone sightings to the nearest police officer. Additionally, attendees are advised not to leave bags or other items unattended and to report any suspicious activity or items to the authorities immediately. The city has also released a Special Event Safety Guide, which provides tips and information on how to be prepared and ready for the event. Attendees can also stay connected to important information from the city by texting "NYEPHL" to 888-777 to receive free alerts from the Office of Emergency Management.
Road Closures and Parking Restrictions
To ensure public safety, the city has announced several road closures and parking restrictions that will be in place during the event. The Benjamin Franklin Parkway inner lanes will be closed from 20th Street to Eakins Oval, as well as the outbound outer lanes from 22nd Street to Eakins Oval. Other streets that will be closed include Eakins Oval, Spring Garden Street, 23rd Street, and MLK Drive. Additionally, several streets will be posted as "Temporary No Parking" zones, and vehicles parked in these areas during posted hours will be relocated. The city has also announced that additional road closures may be implemented by the Philadelphia Police Department based on conditions, and attendees are advised to check for updates before heading to the event.
Transportation Options
For attendees planning to use public transportation, the city’s mass transit system, SEPTA, will be offering service to and from the event. SEPTA’s website provides full details on transit options, including subway lines, regional rail service, and bus service throughout the city. Attendees can also visit the NJ Transit website for information on routes and schedules on December 31. The city has encouraged attendees to plan ahead and use public transportation to avoid parking and traffic congestion.
Event Details
The fireworks display will be launched from three barges over the Delaware River, expanding the viewing area for the show. The city has announced that the fireworks will be launched at midnight, and attendees can enjoy the display from various locations throughout the city. The concert will feature a lineup of talented artists, including LL Cool J, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Adam Blackstone, and attendees can expect a fun and exciting celebration to ring in the new year. With its rich history and cultural significance, the city of Philadelphia is the perfect place to celebrate the start of a new year and the nation’s 250th birthday.