Fireworks at Navy Pier
Chicago invites everyone to celebrate the arrival of the New Year with its renowned, award-winning fireworks at Navy Pier. At midnight, a mesmerizing and free showcase will light up the lakefront, filling the sky with vibrant bursts of color to welcome 2025. This year, the award-winning New Year’s Eve fireworks display will last an extended 15 minutes, featuring a dazzling array of fireworks perfectly synchronized to music.
Blue Man Group
The Blue Man Group is ringing in the New Year with four special performances designed to make the celebration unforgettable. Guests of all ages are invited to experience their signature blend of music, comedy, and vibrant visual effects in a festive atmosphere. For families with young children, the 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. shows offer a fun, kid-friendly way to enjoy the excitement of New Year’s Eve. These earlier performances ensure that even the youngest revelers can join in the celebration without staying up past bedtime. For those looking to end the evening with a bang, later performances promise an electrifying way to usher in the New Year with the Blue Man Group’s high-energy entertainment and a few surprises to mark the occasion.
Discover NHL Winter Classic
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Discover NHL Winter Classic in Chicago! Watch the Chicago Blackhawks take on the St. Louis Blues at Wrigley Field, returning to this iconic venue for the first time since 2009. The Blackhawks and Blues, fierce rivals since the 1967-68 season, will face off in an exciting matchup to celebrate their storied history. Before the game, join the free Winter Classic Pre-Game event on Dec. 31 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 1126 W. Grace Street. Enjoy family-friendly games, special appearances, and a chance to see the legendary Stanley Cup!
Fireworks at Chicago Riverwalk
Ring in 2025 with a dazzling fireworks show on the Chicago Riverwalk! Starting at 11:55 p.m. on Dec. 31, a countdown will be projected onto THE MART’s massive façade, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at midnight from six Chicago River bridges. For the best views, head to Upper Wacker Drive between McClurg Court and Franklin Street. Note: most of the Riverwalk will close at 11 p.m., with only the section from Wells Street to Orleans Street open for spectators. Before the countdown, enjoy a special ART on THE MART showcase starting at 10 p.m., featuring highlights from past projections, including works by Obscura Intro and Yiyun Kang.