Chicago is a city that knows how to throw a party. Never is that more apparent than on New Year's Eve, when the city bursts to life with celebrations, fireworks displays and live performances. If you're wondering how to spend New Year's Eve in Chicagoland, let our real estate agents be your guides.
New Year's Eve Fireworks - Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
The annual New Year's Eve Fireworks at Navy Pier promises to be one of the grandest spectacles of the year in Chicago. At 11:59 pm on December 31, fireworks will light up the sky as the countdown to midnight begins. They're visible from far and wide — many Downtown hotels host NYE parties with views of the fireworks — but they can also be seen for free from the pier itself. Be sure to arrive early at Navy Pier to secure a spot!
New Year's Eve Dinner at Smyth - 177 N Ada St #101, Chicago, IL 60607
Numerous Chicago restaurants host excellent NYE dinner parties, but few are as lauded and luxurious as Smyth. Boasting three Michelin stars, this rustic-chic eatery in the West Loop serves elevated New American cuisine. They'll have a special New Year's Eve menu, with decadent offerings like caviar, truffles and champagne. Reservations should be made well in advance.
NYE on the Lake 2025 - 2401 N DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
A private venue in a restored 1920s-era building in Lincoln Park, the beautiful Theater on the Lake hosts events and performances year-round. Their annual NYE on the Lake celebration is among the most anticipated, especially given the lakefront venue's unbroken view of the Navy Pier fireworks. NYE on the Lake 2025 will be the event of the season, featuring live music, upscale appetizers and truly off-the-wall features like aerialist bartenders and a champagne chandelier. Doors open at 7:30, and the party runs from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Lake Street Dive at the Salt Shed - 1357 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Anyone who wants to see live music on New Year's Eve should head to the Salt Shed, a sprawling indoor/outdoor venue. Lake Street Dive will perform New Year's shows at the Salt Shed on December 30 and 31, bringing their high-energy blend of jazz, folk and rock to Chicago for back-to-back nights.
New Year on the Pier - Navy Pier, 700 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
A true hidden gem on the Chicago lakefront, Bar Sol at Navy Pier serves Latin-influenced cuisine and cocktails in a colorful space with perfect views of the New Year's Eve fireworks show. From 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., Bar Sol will be hosting New Year on the Pier, a stylish celebration across the venue's multiple floors. Expect live music, DJs, abundant food and drink, and ample opportunities to dance the night away.
100 Years of Gatsby - 111 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654
Celebrate the new year, the Jazz Age, and the 100th anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel at 100 Years of Gatsby at the Untitled Supper Club. Starting at 8 p.m., the party will include great food, music and performances spanning multiple rooms. The Untitled Supper Club is a luxe speakeasy-style venue in Chicago's River North neighborhood, and this event is a great way to party like it's 1925.
Contact us today to learn more about life in Chicago! And be sure to ask our real estate agents about how we can help you find your home in Chicago in 2025.
