“Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” is set to make history this year by adding a countdown segment from Chicago for the Central time zone. This marks the first time in the more than 50-year history of the live telecast on ABC that a segment will originate from Chicago. The addition of this new countdown segment will join the traditional segments that count down the last seconds to midnight in New York and the Spanish-language countdown from Puerto Rico.
The Chicago segment will feature a new host, live performances, and on-the-ground updates and reporting throughout the evening. Mayor of Chicago, Brandon Johnson, expressed his excitement about the opportunity to showcase the beauty and dynamism of the city to a global audience. He stated, “We could not be more excited to welcome in the new year with fireworks, music, and Chicago pride.”
John Idler, general manager of ABC O&O WLS-TV, echoed the mayor’s sentiments, emphasizing that Chicago is “Chicago Proud” to be featured on “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.” The segment will include a spectacular fireworks display focused on the iconic bridges that cross the Chicago River and showcase the city’s world-class architecture.
Interestingly, Chicago is also the hometown of Barry Adelman, the longtime executive producer of “Rockin’ Eve.” Adelman, who serves as the executive VP of television for Dick Clark Productions, expressed his excitement about the new chapter for the show. He highlighted the opportunity to share Chicago’s incredible energy, culture, and spirit with millions of viewers across the country.
“Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026” is scheduled to air live on ABC on Wednesday, December 31, starting at 8 p.m. ET. The show is known for being one of the top telecasts of New Year’s Eve and one of the year’s most-watched entertainment specials. In the previous year, the countdown special garnered about 29 million viewers in the midnight hour.
As we countdown to the new year, all eyes will be on Chicago as it takes center stage in this iconic New Year’s Eve celebration. Don’t miss out on the excitement and join millions of viewers across the country in ringing in the new year with “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.”
