CHICAGO — As the year draws to a close, Chicago offers a vibrant array of celebrations to welcome the new year. From upscale dining experiences to family-friendly activities, residents and visitors have countless options to choose from. Notably, this year marks the first broadcast of “Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve,” hosted by Chance the Rapper, featuring live performances and a fireworks display along the Riverwalk.
Dining Experiences to Ring in the New Year
For those seeking a culinary celebration, the New Year’s Supper Club at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel presents a chef-curated three-course meal from December 29 to January 1. Guests can indulge in lobster bisque, braised lamb shank, and a delightful raspberry chocolate panna cotta for a price of $80-$90 per person.
At Casa Chi, renowned chef Richard Sandoval offers a unique three-course, Nikkei-inspired menu on December 31. Attendees can enjoy boozy tea pots and shareable bites, including smoked swordfish dip and yuzu cheesecake. The experience also features a DJ and a midnight champagne toast.
Eataly invites guests to its New Year’s Eve Festa, an early-evening event featuring over 15 chef-crafted tasting dishes, starting at $60. For a Tuscan-style dining experience, Tre Dita will serve a special menu from 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on December 31.
Other notable dining events include a seven-course prix-fixe dinner at Tanta Cocina Peruana and a four-course dinner at Petterino’s, which will feature hourly toasts as midnight approaches in various time zones.
Exciting Parties and Family Fun
The main highlight for New Year’s Eve in Chicago is the event along the Riverwalk. Starting at 19:00 on December 31, Chance the Rapper will kick off the first edition of “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.” The festivities will include a range of musical performances from 21:00 and culminate in a midnight countdown, followed by a spectacular fireworks show.
For an alternative celebration, LSDREAM will perform at the Aon Grand Ballroom, promising a night filled with bass-heavy soundscapes and openers including Know Good and Steller. Tickets for this event start at $90.38.
Families can enjoy the Noon Year’s Eve Concert at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum on December 31, featuring a sing-along and crafts. This family-friendly event runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon, with tickets ranging from $20-$40.
Another option is the New Year’s Eve Pickleball Tournament at Clark Street Pickleball, allowing participants to compete for prizes while enjoying the last day of the year on the court.
Chicago’s celebrations extend into New Year’s Day, with activities such as the New Year’s Day Pajama Bash at The Graystone Tavern, where breakfast tacos will be available until noon. Cody’s Public House will also host a dog-friendly event featuring a complimentary doughnut and bagel bar.
With such a diverse array of events, Chicagoans have ample opportunity to welcome the new year in style, whether through fine dining, lively parties, or family-oriented activities. As the clock strikes midnight, the city promises an unforgettable celebration filled with joy and excitement.
