“Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest” Kicks Off 2026 With Music and Glamour
For decades, “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” has been the soundtrack to our New Year’s parties, and this year promises to be bigger than ever. Whether you are hosting a festive bash with friends or cozying up on the couch with a glass of bubbly, here is everything you need to know about the 2026 celebration.
Who is Performing This Year?
This year’s lineup, listed on ABC’s website, is nothing short of spectacular. ABC and Dick Clark Productions have pulled out all the stops, bringing together a mix of current chart-toppers and legendary favorites. It feels like there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Chappell Roan, who has been dominating the airwaves lately, is set to bring her unique energy to the stage. If you have been loving the pop resurgence, you will also be thrilled to see Mariah Carey returning—because is it really the holidays without her?
For those who love a good throwback, New Kids on the Block and The All-American Rejects are joining the party. It’s the perfect excuse to sing along at the top of your lungs. Country music fans can look forward to performances from Little Big Town, Maren Morris, and Jordan Davis.
And that is just scratching the surface. The massive roster also includes Post Malone, Chance the Rapper, Demi Lovato, Charlie Puth, and OneRepublic. Plus, K-pop sensations LE SSERAFIM and the singing voices of KPop Demon Hunters (HUNTR/X) will be lighting up the stage.
Where and When to Watch
Mark your calendars! The festivities kick off on Wednesday, December 31, at 8:00 p.m. EST on ABC.
If you cut the cord years ago, don’t worry—you can stream the special the very next day on Hulu.
This year is special because it is the longest telecast in the show’s history. They have added an extra 90 minutes of programming, meaning the party goes on until 4:00 a.m. EST. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, so make sure you have plenty of snacks ready!
Who Are the Hosts?
Ryan Seacrest is back at the helm in New York City’s Times Square, bringing that familiar comfort we have all come to rely on as we count down the seconds. He will be joined by the lovely Rita Ora as his co-host in the Big Apple.
But the party isn’t just in New York. For the first time ever, Chance the Rapper will be leading a live countdown from his hometown of Chicago for the Central Time Zone. Over in Los Angeles—the “Entertainment Capital of the World”—NFL legend Rob Gronkowski is teaming up with “Dancing with the Stars” favorite Julianne Hough to ring in the new year West Coast style.
There will also be celebrations in Las Vegas and Puerto Rico, making this a truly nationwide event.
Why We Love It
There is something deeply comforting about this broadcast hosted by Ryan Seacrest. It connects us. No matter where we are in the country, millions of us are watching the same performances, feeling that same anticipation, and sharing that same hope for the year ahead.
With over 85 songs set to be performed and a lineup that spans generations and genres, “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026” is shaping up to be the perfect way to say goodbye to the old and hello to the new. So, get your party hats ready and prepare to sing your heart out!
