Chicago River’s New Year’s Eve fireworks span 6 bridges

Chicago is gearing up for a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration, with fireworks displays planned at six bridges along the Chicago River and at Navy Pier.

According to the city, the best location to watch the fireworks along the river is Upper Wacker Drive between McClurg Court and Franklin Street. The Riverwalk will close at 11 p.m., but a section of it between Wells and Orleans Streets will stay open until 12:15 a.m. Art projections will be displayed on the side of The Mart (formerly Merchandise Mart) as part of the festivities. The projections will begin at 7:30 p.m. and end just before the midnight countdown starts at 11:55 p.m.

Navy Pier will also host a free fireworks display for New Year's Eve, overlooking Lake Michigan. The 10-minute show will feature 100,000 pyrotechnics and is scheduled to commence at midnight. Bridge closures along the Franklin Street, LaSalle Street, Clark Street, Dearborn Street, State Street, and Columbus Drive bridges are expected from 11:45 p.m. to 12:15 a.m.

Boats will not be permitted to travel along the Chicago River from Franklin to Columbus between 11:30 p.m. and 12:15 a.m. The spectacular fireworks event promises to be a memorable way for residents and visitors to ring in the new year in Chicago.