Chicago Rings in 2025 with Stunning New Year’s Eve Fireworks and ART on THE MART Show
Mayor Brandon Johnson and DCASE Announce Return of New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular
Chicagoans and visitors alike are in for a dazzling celebration as the city rings in 2025 with a spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display along the Chicago River. Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced the return of this iconic event, complete with a custom ART on THE MART projection show, ensuring the city’s festivities are both vibrant and unforgettable.
Where to Watch
The fireworks can be best viewed along Upper Wacker Drive from McClurg Court to Franklin Street. The show will launch from the Orleans, La Salle, Clark, Dearborn, State, and Columbus Drive bridges, creating a picturesque backdrop against Chicago’s skyline.
Plan Ahead: Street Closures and Transportation
To ensure a safe experience, several bridges will close to both traffic and pedestrians from 11:45 p.m. to 12:15 a.m.:
- Orleans
- La Salle
- Clark
- Dearborn
- State
- Columbus
Spectators are encouraged to use public transportation for ease of access and to avoid traffic congestion. Additional closures may occur as the countdown to midnight approaches.
ART on THE MART: A Visual Treat
The ART on THE MART projections will feature past favorites, beginning at 10 p.m. and culminating with the official countdown at 11:55 p.m. Highlights include works by renowned artists such as:
- Obscura Intro
- Jonas Denzel
- Yuge Zhou
- Black Dance Legacy Project
- Yiyun Kang
- Cory Arcangel
- Brendan Fernandes
The Riverwalk will be partially closed from 11 p.m., with only the section from Wells Street to Orleans Street open to the public until 12:15 a.m. This area provides the best vantage point to enjoy the ART on THE MART program in full.
Navy Pier’s Fireworks and Citywide Events
For those near the lakefront, Navy Pier’s award-winning fireworks display will also start with a countdown to midnight, followed by a ten-minute show visible along the Lakefront. Visit NavyPier.org for more details, and check ChooseChicago.com for additional New Year’s Eve celebrations across the city.
Stay Safe and Vigilant
The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) urges attendees to remain vigilant in crowded areas. Report any suspicious activity to onsite security or call 9-1-1. Public transportation is recommended to ease traffic congestion. For updates on traffic, weather, and emergencies, download the Chicago OEMC App or visit Chicago.gov/OEMC.
Conclusions
The New Year’s Eve fireworks and ART on THE MART display promises to be a magical start to 2025, blending art, celebration, and community in the heart of the city. For more information on the event, visit Chicago.gov/NYE and follow DCASE on social media.
FAQs
* Where can I watch the fireworks?
* The fireworks can be best viewed along Upper Wacker Drive from McClurg Court to Franklin Street.
* When will the bridges close?
* Several bridges will close to both traffic and pedestrians from 11:45 p.m. to 12:15 a.m.
* Can I use public transportation?
* Yes, public transportation is encouraged for ease of access and to avoid traffic congestion.
* What is the best vantage point to enjoy the ART on THE MART program?
* The Riverwalk will be partially closed from 11 p.m., with only the section from Wells Street to Orleans Street open to the public until 12:15 a.m. This area provides the best vantage point to enjoy the ART on THE MART program in full.
