ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest” and NBC’s “Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade” are two of broadcast TV’s biggest events that bookend the year with record-breaking viewership.
Kicking off the year with a peak of 29 million viewers at midnight as 2024 turned into 2025, “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest” continues to be a massive success as viewers tune in to watch the iconic ball drop in Times Square. The telecast has evolved into an all-night event, incorporating both primetime and late-night elements. For the 2026 edition, the show will include a Central Time Zone countdown for the first time, led by guest Diana Ross. In the 2024-2025 edition, the special’s Part 1 averaged 17.9 million viewers with a 4.73 rating among adults 18-49, peaking during the midnight quarter-hour with a total of 21.5 million viewers and an 18-49 rating of 5.70.
“New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” remains the most-watched New Year’s Eve show on television, surpassing its closest competition, CBS’ “New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash,” by 2.5 times. The telecast was ABC’s most-watched entertainment program since the 2024 Oscars and easily secured the top spot for the night.
Other notable broadcast TV events throughout the year included the Golden Globes, the Grammys, SNL50: The Anniversary Special, the Oscars, the Opry 100, the American Music Awards, the Tony Awards, the MTV Video Music Awards, the Emmys, the “Everybody Loves Raymond: 30th Anniversary Special,” the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the National Dog Show, and Christmas in Rockefeller Plaza. Each event garnered significant viewership numbers, solidifying their importance in the television landscape.
Overall, broadcast TV continues to draw in large audiences with its lineup of major events throughout the year. From star-studded award shows to iconic parades and anniversary specials, these programs captivate viewers and showcase the best of what television has to offer. With record-breaking ratings and memorable moments, these events serve as highlights in the TV calendar and bring communities together to celebrate and enjoy shared experiences.
