CHICAGO NEW YEAR’S EVE 2025: WHERE THE CITY RINGS IN THE MOMENT

Chicago doesn’t ease into the New Year — it arrives. From champagne pours downtown to fireworks cutting across Lake Michigan, the city knows how to close a chapter and welcome the next one with intention.

Whether you’re stepping out for a luxury night, bringing the family along for an early celebration, or keeping it classic with fireworks on the lakefront, here’s how Chicago is closing out 2025 and stepping into 2026.

New Year’s Eve at TAO Chicago

• When: 8:00 PM – Midnight
• Details: TAO Chicago is hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration with light bites, premium cocktails, and a midnight champagne toast. Tickets include access to both the restaurant and nightclub floors.

Navy Pier’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show

• When: Midnight
• Details: Navy Pier’s official New Year’s Eve fireworks listing includes a free display over Lake Michigan as the clock strikes midnight. The show is scheduled to last about 10 minutes, so arrive early if you want a prime viewing spot along the pier and lakefront.

Noon Year’s Eve at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

• When: 10:30 AM – Noon
• Details: Families can celebrate early with a Noon Year’s Eve concert featuring live, interactive music and hands-on crafts. Tickets include all-day museum admission.

Gatsby’s Prohibition Party at Morgan Manufacturing

• When: 9:00 PM – 1:30 AM
• Details: This Roaring Twenties-themed New Year’s Eve party includes multiple DJ sets, themed décor, and champagne service. The event offers general admission and VIP ticket options and is strictly 21+.

FATALE: New Year’s Eve at Untitled Supper Club

• When: Doors open at 8:00 PM
• Details: Inspired by the musical Chicago, this New Year’s Eve celebration features live music, cabaret, burlesque, and circus-style performances, along with DJs and light bites throughout the night.

New Year’s Eve at the Palmer House Hilton

• When: 9:00 PM – 1:30 AM
• Details: One of the city’s largest New Year’s Eve events includes multiple ballrooms, DJs, food and drink packages, and a midnight celebration. VIP tickets and table service packages are available.

“The Final Toast” at The Promontory

• When: 8:30 PM – 2:00 AM
• Details: This event marks the final New Year’s Eve celebration at The Promontory. The night includes multiple DJs, party favors, a midnight toast, and optional open-bar packages.

Know Before You Go

The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications urges residents and visitors to plan ahead for New Year’s Eve celebrations throughout the city.

Street closures may be in effect throughout downtown, including portions of Wacker Drive and several bridges. Public transportation is recommended. CTA trains and buses will be free from 10:00 PM until 4:00 AM.

Closing Thoughts

Chicago doesn’t just celebrate New Year’s Eve — it marks it. Whether you’re dressed to the nines downtown, watching fireworks over the lake, or celebrating early with family, there’s a lane for every type of night.

However you choose to step into 2026, do it intentionally, do it safely, and do it Chicago-style.