Key Takeaways
- Chicago will host its portion of "Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve" along the Downtown Riverwalk, from Wells to Lake.
- The event will feature a main performance stage at Wacker Drive and Franklin Street, with entry beginning at 5 p.m. on Wednesday.
- Attendees will be required to go through security checkpoints and have their bags checked, with bags limited to 12-by-6 inches in size.
- The live broadcast will begin airing at 7 p.m. on ABC-7 Chicago, with a special ART on THE MART display and main-stage performances to follow.
- A five-minute fireworks display will begin just before midnight, with the best viewing spots located on Upper Wacker Drive from McClurg Court to Franklin Street.
Introduction to the Event
Chicago is set to host its portion of "Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve" for the first time, with South Side native Chance the Rapper leading the Downtown festivities. The event will take place along the Downtown Riverwalk, from Wells to Lake, and will kick off at 7 p.m. on Wednesday. According to a city press release, attendees can expect a fun and exciting celebration to ring in the new year. The main performance stage will be located at Wacker Drive and Franklin Street, and entry for the festivities will begin at 5 p.m. on Wednesday.
Event Details and Logistics
Attendees can enter and exit the performance area on Wacker Drive, west of Wells and east of Lake. However, all attendees will be required to go through security checkpoints and have their bags checked. Bags should be no larger than 12-by-6 inches in size, and gates will close once the area reaches capacity. The live broadcast will begin airing at 7 p.m. on ABC-7 Chicago, and will feature a special ART on THE MART display from 7-9 p.m. Main-stage performances will begin after the display, and will continue until the countdown to midnight. A five-minute fireworks display will begin just before midnight, set off from bridges between Orleans and Columbus on the river.
Best Viewing Spots and Street Closures
The best spots to watch the fireworks will be on Upper Wacker Drive from McClurg Court to Franklin Street, according to the city. However, attendees should be aware that Downtown street closures for the New Year’s Eve festivities will begin at 10 a.m. on Monday. Various Downtown bridges will be closed from 11:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. related to the fireworks, and the Chicago River will also be closed to boat traffic from 11:30 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. Attendees can check the city’s Office of Emergency Management and Communication social media for closure updates and other event details.
Preparation and Safety
With the event expected to draw large crowds, attendees are advised to plan ahead and arrive early to ensure entry. The security checkpoints and bag checks are in place to ensure the safety of all attendees, and attendees are asked to cooperate with event staff and security personnel. Additionally, attendees should be aware of their surroundings and keep an eye on their belongings at all times. By being prepared and aware of the event details and logistics, attendees can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Conclusion
Chicago’s portion of "Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve" promises to be an exciting and memorable event, with a great lineup of performances and a spectacular fireworks display. With the event details and logistics in place, attendees can look forward to a fun and safe celebration to ring in the new year. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the city, this event is not to be missed. So mark your calendars, arrive early, and get ready to celebrate the start of a new year in style.