Navy Pier rings in New Year with eclectic lineup of celebrations

Chicago’s favorite lakefront destination is pulling out all the stops to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026 in style. On New Year’s Eve, Navy Pier will transform into a hub of music, dining, family-friendly fun and festive revelry, capped off by its iconic midnight fireworks over Lake Michigan. From high-energy concerts and elegant parties to cozy lodge gatherings and early celebrations for families, there’s truly something for everyone at “the People’s Pier.”

Here’s a look at what’s in store this New Year’s Eve at Navy Pier:

New Year on the Pier with Bar Sol

For those seeking a vibrant and upscale way to start the new year, Bar Sol is hosting a multi-floor celebration with sweeping views of Lake Michigan. Live musicians including Enrique Calderon, Jonathan Wenzel and Manuel Canchola will provide the soundtrack early in the evening, while DJs MaddJazz, House13, Ray Fresh, DJ Eddie V, DJ Buff and DMN8TR keep the dance floor energized into the night. Guests can enjoy gourmet appetizers, a premium drink package, champagne and front-row views of Navy Pier’s legendary midnight fireworks.

LSDREAM in the Aon Grand Ballroom

Electronic music fans can ring in 2026 with an electrifying performance by LSDREAM, known for bass-heavy soundscapes, psychedelic visuals and immersive live shows. The night promises a high-vibrational journey into the new year, with supporting performances by Know Good, Steller and Noize Complaint, each bringing their own distinct sound and artistry to the stage.

City Cruises’ Signature Cruises

Celebrations on the water begin earlier in the day with City Cruises’ Premier Brunch Cruise from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., featuring gourmet dining, dancing and stunning skyline views on Lake Michigan.

Later that evening, guests can close out 2025 aboard the New Year’s Eve Signature Dinner Cruise, departing at 9:30 p.m. The experience includes a chef-prepared meal, dancing to a live DJ, a fully stocked bar and breathtaking views from both the climate-controlled interior and open-air decks.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

As the clock strikes midnight, Navy Pier will once again light up the Chicago skyline with its signature New Year’s Eve fireworks display. The free, ten-minute show promises a dazzling spectacle over Lake Michigan and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure the best viewing spots.

Harry Caray’s Lakefront Lodge Celebration

For a warm and cozy New Year’s Eve, Harry Caray’s Restaurant at Navy Pier offers festive gatherings inside its beautifully decorated Lakefront Lodge or outdoors in private heated igloos and a curling rink. Party packages are available for groups of up to 18 from 6–8 p.m., as well as a premium package from 9 p.m. to midnight that includes party favors and three bottles of prosecco. The Winter Warming Hut Package, designed for up to 10 guests, features a private firepit for an extra-toasty celebration.

Prix Fixe Dinner at Lirica

Chef-driven classics with Latin flair take center stage at Lirica’s New Year’s Eve prix fixe dinner. The menu highlights indulgent options such as premium caviar, beef filet, lobster linguini and a truffle flourless chocolate cake. Each reservation includes a complimentary glass of prosecco to toast the new year.

New Year’s Firework Viewing at Sable

Sable’s New Year’s Eve bash offers stunning, floor-to-ceiling views of the Chicago skyline and Navy Pier fireworks from the Great Lakes Ballroom above Lirica. The celebration includes a four-hour open bar, appetizer stations, a DJ, and a midnight bubbly toast to welcome 2026.

Beach Ball Drop at Margaritaville

Families can celebrate early at Margaritaville with an evening of all-ages fun, live music, and a festive “beach ball drop” at 8 p.m. The party continues later with a 21-and-over afterparty featuring a DJ spinning until 1 a.m., while Navy Pier’s fireworks light up the sky at midnight.

Winter WonderFest

Navy Pier’s popular Winter WonderFest will also be open throughout the day on New Year’s Eve, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests can enjoy the indoor winter playground complete with holiday décor, rides, ice skating, and seasonal attractions.

With so many ways to celebrate, Navy Pier is once again proving it’s the ultimate destination to ring in the new year. A complete list of New Year’s Eve activities, tickets, and reservations is available on the Navy Pier website.

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