‘Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’ Adds Chicago Central Time Zone Countdown Segment

For the first time in its over fifty-year history, ABC's "Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve" will feature a live broadcast specifically for the Central time zone, originating from Chicago. This new production segment represents a major evolution for the program, which has traditionally centered on New York's Times Square countdown and the Spanish-language celebration from Puerto Rico. The expansion is a deliberate effort to more accurately reflect the geographic and cultural diversity of its national audience.

The Chicago event, as detailed by Dick Clark Productions, will be a comprehensive live show featuring a newly named host, a musical performance, and extensive on-location reporting. Television analyst Dr. Lena Morris noted that this is a savvy strategic play. "Incorporating a major hub like Chicago allows the producers to tap into the distinct cultural and musical vibrancy of the Midwest," she explained. "This move goes beyond solving a time zone issue; it's about forging a deeper connection with viewers in a key market, which can significantly boost audience engagement."

Chicago's city officials have enthusiastically embraced the news. Mayor Brandon Johnson shared his pride, calling it a fantastic opportunity to showcase the city's spirit and beauty to a national audience. The local ABC affiliate, WLS-TV, is deeply involved in the planning. Its general manager, John Idler, highlighted that the "Chicago Proud" celebration will feature a spectacular fireworks display centered on the historic bridges spanning the Chicago River, all set against the city's world-renowned architectural skyline.

The decision to base the new segment in Chicago carries a personal connection for the show's executive producer, Barry Adelman. A Chicago native and Executive Vice President at Dick Clark Productions, Adelman expressed his excitement about opening this new chapter. He believes the city's dynamic energy will translate powerfully to television. The production company itself was founded by Dick Clark, a legendary radio and television host whose "American Bandstand" helped shape rock and roll's rise in the 1950s. The company has been producing the New Year's Eve special since 1972, cementing its status as an American holiday institution.

"Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026" is set to air live on ABC on Wednesday, December 31st, beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET. The special has consistently been a ratings juggernaut; the 2024-25 edition drew an estimated 29 million viewers in the crucial midnight hour alone. The addition of the Chicago celebration is anticipated to not only attract new viewers from the Central time zone but also to reinforce the broadcast's dominance as the definitive New Year's Eve television event for the entire country.