The iconic celebration expands to its longest broadcast ever, featuring Diana Ross, Mariah Carey, Post Malone and 39 other stars across five cities on December 31
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest returns for its 53rd year as America’s most-watched New Year’s Eve celebration. The 2026 broadcast represents the show’s most ambitious effort yet, expanding by an additional 90 minutes and featuring an unprecedented 42 superstar performers across multiple cities. Last year’s midnight moment drew more than 29 million total viewers, cementing the show’s status as the nation’s premier countdown celebration.
The extended celebration kicks off live on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, beginning at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time and 7:00 p.m. Central Time on ABC. Viewers who miss the live broadcast can stream the event the next day on Hulu. The show will also air live across more than 150 iHeartRadio stations nationwide and stream on the iHeartRadio app, including major markets like Z100 New York, KIIS-FM Los Angeles, KISS FM Chicago, Q102 Philadelphia and THE NEW MIX 102.9 Dallas.
Star-studded hosting lineup
Ryan Seacrest returns to Times Square alongside Rita Ora to anchor the main broadcast from New York City. The multi-city celebration features Chance the Rapper hosting live from Chicago, while Rob Gronkowski and Julianne Hough handle duties in Las Vegas. Roselyn Sánchez represents Puerto Rico, ensuring the celebration spans multiple time zones and captures diverse cultural moments.
The legendary Diana Ross will deliver a live headlining performance from Times Square to ring in 2026. The iconic vocalist joins other Times Square performers including Ciara, LE SSERAFIM, Little Big Town and Maren Morris, whose performance is sponsored by Carnival Cruise Line. The Times Square stage represents the broadcast’s centerpiece, showcasing the ball drop moment watched by millions worldwide.
West Coast brings massive talent
The West Coast segment delivers an extraordinary lineup spanning multiple genres and generations. Performers include 4 Non Blondes, 50 Cent, 6lack, AJR, The All-American Rejects, BigXthaPlug, Charlie Puth and Demi Lovato. DJ Cassidy’s Pass the Mic Live! features collaborations with Busta Rhymes, T.I. and Wyclef Jean. Additional West Coast acts include Goo Goo Dolls, Jess Glynne, Jessie Murph, Jordan Davis, Leon Thomas and Madison Beer.
Mariah Carey, New Kids on the Block, OneRepublic and Rick Springfield round out the nostalgic performances, while Pitbull teams up with Lil Jon and Filmore. Russell Dickerson, Tucker Wetmore and Zara Larsson complete the West Coast roster alongside KPop Demon Hunters featuring EJAE, Audrey Nuna and REI AMI.
Beyond the coasts, the celebration spreads across America with carefully curated performances reflecting regional pride. Chappell Roan performs live from Kansas City, while Post Malone takes the stage in Nashville. Puerto Rico features global reggaeton icon Daddy Yankee, honoring Latin music’s influence on contemporary culture. Chicago gets special attention with Chance the Rapper both hosting and performing alongside special guest Jamila Woods, highlighting the city’s rich musical heritage.
Record-breaking musical reach
This year’s performer lineup represents more than 925 million total monthly Spotify listeners and 102 billion streams across over 90 songs, making it the most musically significant New Year’s Eve broadcast in the show’s history. The expanded format allows producers to showcase a broader range of musical styles, from classic rock and hip-hop to contemporary pop and Latin rhythms.
Viewers can join the conversation throughout the night using the hashtag #RockinEve across Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and Threads. An official Spotify playlist celebrating the music of performing artists is available for fans wanting to preview or revisit the night’s soundtrack. The show’s official website, NewYearsRockinEve.com, provides additional content and behind-the-scenes access.
The tradition continues
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve remains television’s definitive countdown celebration, blending nostalgic tradition with contemporary star power. The 2026 broadcast’s expanded format and diverse performer lineup ensure the show continues evolving while maintaining the magic that has made it appointment viewing for generations of Americans ready to welcome a new year.