Chicago New Years Eve: Your 2024 Guide on Where to Celebrate
It’s hard to believe the year is already coming to an end. Get ready to end it with a bang in the Windy City!
Not to be outdone by metropolises such as New York City and Los Angeles, Chicago New Years Eve kicks off the new year with style.
If you find yourself in the Midwest this holiday season, look no further than Chicago for New Year’s Eve events.
There’s nothing average about this cultured city located in the middle of the country. From family-friendly attractions to live music and lavish parties, there’s something for everyone with a Chicago New Years Eve.
Whether you are searching for jubilant balloon drops or fireworks displays, you won’t find a better place to feel the wind down than the Windy City.
Follow along as we take a look at some of the biggest and best New Years Chicago celebrations.
The Best New Year’s Eve Events Chicago
Navy Pier New Year’s Eve Events
Ready to ring in the year’s last moments at the iconic Navy Pier? Hightail it here and enjoy one of the top New Years Eve events Chicago. An extravagant fireworks display over Lake Michigan lights up the night at this iconic location.
Snag a spot on the lakefront to watch the magic happen. Better yet, attend one of the parties happening on the pier this year for an exclusive view of the fireworks show!
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Additionally, New Year on the Pier in the stunning Aon Grand Ballroom is an event that will exceed your expectations for New Year’s in Chicago. Dance the night away to a live DJ and band while you fill up on gourmet appetizers and drinks galore as you inch your way to a classic New Year countdown Chicago! Dig that tux out of storage, as you’ll want to dress to impress for this annual New Years Eve party at the Aon.
It all culminates in Navy Pier’s massive fireworks display at midnight. Take in the flying sparks and dazzling skyline from your front-row view! Opt for a VIP package to get rooftop access.
Photo Alert: Arrive in your best party ensemble to snap some pictures at one of the multiple photo ops sprinkled throughout the night. Make this New Years Eve Chicago one you will never forget!
2024 New Year’s Eve in the Sky*
Sweeping aerial views from one of Chi-town’s most famous towers? Yes, please! Enter 2024 from the heavens above, when you attend Chicago’s highest NYE party. New Year’s Eve in the Sky will take place on the 94th floor of the former Hancock Center and include unlimited rides of TILT and unmatched views.
360 Chicago will deliver guests an unforgettable evening of live DJ music, fireworks displays, and more. Sip on a glass of sparkling wine, or hit up the CloudBar for a specialty cocktail or light bite. Groove away in your finest attire, as this is an black tie optional event. Please note that this is a 21-and-over fete and the last admission to 360 Chicago will be at 11:30 p.m.
*New Year’s Eve in the Sky is awaiting confirmation for 2024. Event details are based on last year’s celebration.
Kicks Confetti Ball*
Calling all sneakerheads! Who says NYE is just for heels? Show off those dance moves in a cool, casual style when you bust a move with Time Out Market Chicago. Kicks & Confetti Ball invites you to don your flashiest kicks for hours of mouthwatering eats, drinks, and live entertainment.
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Keep the good times flowing at Fulton Market as you indulge in an all-inclusive drink package, live DJs, and a state-of-the-art stage, dance floor, and sound system. This trendy Windy City shindig will conclude with a glass of bubbly, a midnight countdown, and a multi-colored confetti storm.
*Please note that this event is awaiting confirmation. All event details are based on the Kicks & Confetti Ball.
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Start the New Year with a roar at Zoo Year’s Eve at Lincoln Park Zoo! The zoo’s ZooLights displays will light up the night for a New Year’s Eve experience like no other. Beginning in November and running through January 7th, 2024, little animal lovers can enjoy vivid displays of colorful lights as they soak in the park after dark.
Bundle up and snap selfie after selfie in front of exciting seasonal photo ops and interactive displays. This Chicago New Year’s Eve 2024 event is completely family-friendly, so bring along the little ones, and don’t forget to participate in countdowns every hour.
Zoo Year’s Eve at the Brookfield Zoo
Spending New Year’s Eve in Chicago with the whole family? The Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic event runs through New Year’s Eve. Every family member — young and old alike — will enjoy this sparkling spectacle.
The evening includes a DJ, games, and party favors. Miles of millions of lights make this unparalleled night as bright as can be. Best of all, the event is free for zoo members!
Blue Man Group New Year’s Eve Celebration
You’re in for a world of surprises when you celebrate New Year’s Eve with the Blue Man Group! This should make it to the top of your list of Chicago New Year’s events.
The celebration includes the Blue Men’s own wacky version of “Auld Lang Syne,” a midnight confetti display, and other surprises we won’t spoil.
Just remember, if you sit in the first five rows, put that poncho on and thank us later!
The special New Year’s Eve Chicago show begins at 10 p.m.
Pro Tip: The Blue Man Group also hosts shows at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve for kids and those who prefer to celebrate with a good night’s rest.
DuPage Children’s Museum Annual Bubble Bash
This event is back for its 22nd year at the DuPage Children’s Museum located in Naperville, just outside Chicago. Kids can get creative on New Year’s Eve in Chicago with various craft projects to choose from, such as firework paintings, confetti poppers, and DIY party rockets.
There are four different Chicago New Year’s countdown options at noon. Count down with confetti, bubbles, live music, or even no noise! The choice is yours at this family-friendly event.
Pro Tip: Looking for more things to do in Chicago on New Year’s Eve? Check out the River North neighborhood for a happening scene!
Where to Stay (and Party) for Chicago New Year Eve
Chicago New Year’s Eve parties are possibly the best settings to celebrate. From all-night dancing to an open bar, and a fancy champagne toast – these lively affairs have everything you’ll need for your New Year in Chicago!
Chicago hotels are some of the best places to visit New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve Party at The Drake Hotel
Head to The Drake Hotel for Chicago’s longest-running NYE party this year. All the glitz and glamour will span three ballrooms, so you’ll have plenty of room to celebrate.
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Several DJs, Hors d’oeuvres, a balloon drop, and desserts and coffee after midnight will keep the party going all night long.
JW Marriott Chicago New Year’s Eve
Party tickets and room packages at the JW Marriott Hotel are a great way to celebrate and save at the same time for New Year’s Chicago. The party takes place in multiple rooms and includes three top DJs to get the party started.
There are three events included with your general admission ticket! Additionally, there are VIP tables available. It’s time to hit the dance floor!
The Hilton Chicago New Year’s Eve Gala 2024
Wear your best semi-formal attire and head to one of the most unforgettable Chicago New Year’s Eve events at the Hilton Chicago. A buffet, desserts, and Hors d’oeuvres are all ready to satisfy your appetite at this smashing party.
There will be plenty of entertainment with 12 party acts. Don’t be a party crasher — get your tickets to this New Year’s party Chicago today!
Chicago New Year’s Eve Party at the Swissotel Chicago Hotel
Grab an all-inclusive ticket to the New Year’s Eve Party at the Swissotel Chicago Hotel to turn the page in style. Food, drinks, and entertainment are all on the itinerary for this glamorous night.
Sail Away on Chicago New Year’s Eve Cruises
If you’d prefer to head to the open sea instead of spending your New Year’s Eve landlocked and fighting the crowds to catch a view of the fireworks over Lake Michigan, a cruise may be more your style. This is one of the best things to do in Chicago for New Year’s!
Chicago offers a myriad of dinner and fireworks cruises. Take in the magnificent skyline view under the starry sky as you sail into the night. Reserve your spot on one of these cruises today:
- Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
- Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
- Premier Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River
Psst… don’t brag to your landlubber friends, but you’ll have the best seat in the house for all the New Year’s Eve fireworks displays!
Chicago Attractions and Museums Open on New Year’s Eve
Since most New Year’s Eve events take place at night (understandably), you’ll need something to fill your time during the day. Why not visit some of the city’s iconic attractions?
Check out these destinations on New Year’s Eve:
- The Field Museum
- 360 Chicago Observation Deck
- Art Institute of Chicago
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago
- Chicago History Museum
- Museum of Science and Industry
- Millennium Park
- The Escape Game Chicago
Pro Tip: After you’ve had some time to crash and recover from a long night of celebrating, you’ll need some ways to fill the next day in Chicago! The list above also features some of the best things to do in Chicago on New Year’s Day.
The Best Chicago Eats on New Year’s Eve
Chicago has dining options galore on New Year’s Eve. The trouble will be narrowing it down! We’re here to help.
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Be sure to call ahead to ensure your restaurant of choice has regular hours on the holiday. These spots are usually buzzing on New Year’s in Chicago, so check to see if you need reservations, too!
Here’s where to go if you’re craving…
A Four Course Dinner of Pizza, Pasta, and more
Grab a table at Alla Vita, which typically hosts special dinners for New Year’s Eve.nbsp;
A Michelin Star Restaurant
Check out Next Restaurant for a world-class meal you’ll be talking about for years to come.
The Freshest Pan Asian Food
Place an order at Noodles Etc. for all the noodles, veggies, and rice you’ll possibly want.
Classic Deep Dish Pizza
Make your way to Giordano’s and grab a heaping slice of the classic pie.
Authentic Middle Eastern Food
Visit Al Bawadi Grill for a tasty cultural experience.
Celebrate Chicago New Year’s Eve in the Windy City!
A trip to the Windy City is one of the best ways to kick off the new year. Whether it’s the breathtaking lakeside, the exciting downtown happenings, or the deep dish pizza that draws you in, you’re sure to find a spectacular spot to shake off the old year and get a fresh start!
Visit Tripster to bundle hotels and attractions so you can get the biggest bang for your buck while you’re there!
How Will You Ring in the New Year in Chicago?
Tell us your Chicago New Years plans in the comments!
