To commemorate America’s 250th birthday in 2026, the Washington Monument will have a projection show and an illumination of a 250-foot birthday candle.
To commemorate America’s 250th birthday in 2026, the Washington Monument will have a projection show and an illumination of a 250-foot birthday candle beginning on New Year’s Eve.
It is part of a six-night event, from Dec. 31 through Jan. 5, that will illuminate the monument with projections of stories about how America was discovered, its independence and future.
It was set up by a national organization called Freedom 250, created by President Donald Trump.
“The illumination of the Washington Monument marks the beginning of a momentous year for our nation — 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” Keith Krach, CEO of Freedom 250, said in a news release. “We invite every American — and every friend of America — to join this historic celebration of the triumph of the American spirit.”
The projection event is free and open to the public at the National Mall. The Washington Monument illumination is one of the events nationwide that will celebrate the founding of America.
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The Cookers, a jazz supergroup performing together for nearly two decades, announced their withdrawal from “A Jazz New Year’s Eve” on their website, saying the “decision has come together very quickly” and acknowledging frustration from those who may have planned to attend.
New signage, The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center For The Performing Arts, is unveiled on the Kennedy Center, Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)(AP/Jacquelyn Martin)
New signage, The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center For The Performing Arts, is unveiled on the Kennedy Center, Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)(AP/Jacquelyn Martin)
More artists have canceled scheduled performances at the Kennedy Center following the addition of President Donald Trump’s name to the facility, with jazz supergroup The Cookers pulling out of a planned New Year’s Eve concert, and the institution’s president saying the cancellations belie the artists’ unwillingness to see their music as crossing lines of political disparity.
The fresh round of cancellations after Trump put his name of the building follows an earlier artist backlash in spring. After Trump ousted the Kennedy Center board and named himself the institution’s chairman in February, performer Issa Rae and the producers of “Hamilton” cancelled scheduled engagements while musicians Ben Folds and Renee Flaming stepped down from advisory roles.
The Cookers, a jazz supergroup performing together for nearly two decades, announced their withdrawal from “A Jazz New Year’s Eve” on their website, saying the “decision has come together very quickly” and acknowledging frustration from those who may have planned to attend.
The group didn’t mention the building’s renaming or the Trump administration but did say that, when they return to performing, they wanted to ensure that “the room is able to celebrate the full presence of the music and everyone in it,” reiterating a commitment “to playing music that reaches across divisions rather than deepening them.”
The group may not have addressed the Kennedy Center situation directly, but one of its members has. On Saturday, saxophone player Billy Harper said in comments posted on the Jazz Stage Facebook page that he “would never even consider performing in a venue bearing a name (and being controlled by the kind of board) that represents overt racism and deliberate destruction of African American music and culture. The same music I devoted my life to creating and advancing.”
According to the White House, Trump’s handpicked board approved the renaming. Harper said both the board, “as well as the name displayed on the building itself represents a mentality and practices I always stood against. And still do, today more than ever.”
Richard Grenell, a Trump ally whom the president chose to head the Kennedy Center after he forced out the previous leadership, posted Monday night on X that “The artists who are now canceling shows were booked by the previous far left leadership,” intimating the bookings were made under the Biden administration.
In a statement to The Associated Press, Grenell said Tuesday the ”last minute cancellations prove that they were always unwilling to perform for everyone — even those they disagree with politically,” adding that the Kennedy Center had been “flooded with inquiries from real artists willing to perform for everyone and who reject political statements in their artistry.”
There was no immediate word from Kennedy Center officials if the entity would pursue legal action against the group, as Grenell said it would after musician Chuck Redd canceled a Christmas Eve performance. Following that withdrawal, in which Redd cited the Kennedy Center renaming, Grenell said he would seek $1 million in damages for what he called a “political stunt.”
President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, and Congress passed a law the following year naming the center as a living memorial to him. Scholars have said any changes to the building’s name would need congressional approval; the law explicitly prohibits the board of trustees from making the center into a memorial to anyone else, and from putting another person’s name on the building’s exterior.
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Associated Press writers Steven Sloan and Hillel Italie contributed to this report.
It’s the time of year to celebrate the transition from 2025 to 2026. There will be closures for the D.C. region for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
It’s the time of year to celebrate the transition from 2025 to 2026.
With that, there will be closures for the D.C. region for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Transit and travel
Metro announced that Metrorail will operate on a regular weekday schedule and run until 2 a.m. on New Year’s Eve, giving riders two more hours to get home safely. You can ride for free between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m.
On New Year’s Day, Metrorail will run on a weekend late night schedule from 5 a.m. until midnight, and Metrobus will be on a Sunday schedule.
Additionally, parking is free at Metro stations from 8 p.m. New Year’s Eve through New Year’s Day.
In D.C., trash collections scheduled for Thursday will move to Friday.
In Arlington, Virginia, trash collection scheduled for Thursday will be completed Friday, while collections scheduled for Friday will be done Saturday. The same goes for special collections. The Household Hazardous Materials/Electronics Collection Recycling Center and the Earth Products Recycling Yard are both closed Thursday.
In Alexandria, Virginia, trash collections scheduled for Thursday will move to Friday.
In Fairfax County, Virginia, trash collection will continue as scheduled. However, the I-66 Transfer Station and the I-95 Landfill Complex recycling and disposal centers will close at 2 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and stay closed on New Year’s Day.
In Montgomery County, Maryland, trash collections scheduled for Thursday will move to Friday. The Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center will be closed on New Year’s Day.
In Prince George’s County, Maryland, trash collections scheduled for Thursday will move to Friday.
Other local closures
Also in the D.C. region, post offices, schools, public libraries and most banks will be closed on New Year’s Day.
Jan. 1 is a government holiday for numerous jurisdictions in the area, such as:
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On New Year’s Eve around Charlotte, there are many diverse ways to celebrate, ranging from lively parties to exquisite dining experiences. Many events highlight a blend of local culture, entertainment, and food.
A notable event takes place at Brewers at 4001 Yancey, offering an all-inclusive night complete with DJs, a confetti blast, and a silent disco.
Su Casa celebrates with an Afro-fusion dance party at Blume Studios, marking its 15th anniversary with global Latin rhythms.
For a unique dining experience, Ever Andalo features a five-course Italian meal crafted by Chef Sam Sheehan.
Nuvole Rooftop TwentyTwo hosts a party with stunning skyline views and a secret speakeasy for those who unlock the passcode.
Michelin-recognized dining is an option at various Charlotte locations, with multi-course meals enhancing the New Year’s festivities, including at Counter-, where guests will enjoy a 20-course meal as a tribute to Salvador Dali.
Among the places you can celebrate this New Year’s Eve is at The Ballantyne, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte. By Michael Freas Photography
NO. 1: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTIES, DINNERS AND MORE AROUND CHARLOTTE
Charlotte is ready to ring in 2026 in style, and there’s a party for every vibe. | Published December 9, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore
A sparkling toast is offered at Haberdish in NoDa, one of the Michelin Guide’s recommended Charlotte restaurants hosting New Year’s Eve events. By Courtesy of Haberdish
NO. 2: CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE AT A MICHELIN-RECOGNIZED CHARLOTTE RESTAURANT
For a twist on a traditional New Year’s Eve celebration this year, why not celebrate in a way that’s oh-so-2025: | Published December 16, 2025 | Read Full Story by Melissa Oyler
The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
The powers that be have released the Fremont Street New Years Eve lineup for 2025 — and some longtime websites have already labeled it underwhelming. Sure, it’s still Vegas… and it’s still Fremont… and it’s New Year’s Eve. But this year’s event under the canopy will feature a roster of names that may not draw the same buzz as in past years. Still, it’s worth checking out the schedule just to see what’s up.
The announced performers include Robin Thicke, CeeLo Green, Common Kings, Chingy, Pertinence and Sammy Johnson. Tickets are priced at $60. The schedule across three outdoor stages is slated as follows: on the 3rd Street Stage — live DJ at 7:00 p.m., CeeLo Green at 9:15 p.m., Robin Thicke at 11:30 p.m.; on the 1st Street Stage — DJ at 7:00 p.m., Sammy Johnson at 9:00 p.m., Common Kings at 11:30 p.m.; on the Main Street Stage — DJ at 7:00 p.m., Pertinence at 9:00 p.m., and Chingy at 11:00 p.m.
Many who follow the event say the draw of New Year’s Eve on Fremont is not necessarily big-name stars, but rather the chaotic energy of a packed street under a giant LED canopy, the festive crowd, and proximity to downtown casinos. Historically, attendance has remained steady — around 10,000 to 12,000 — regardless of who’s on the bill or how high the price.
Still, this year’s lineup has sparked discussion about whether the event’s appeal may finally be tested. With overall visitation to Las Vegas reportedly down, cost-cutting on talent might be a sign of changing times for Downtown’s marquee night. For some, that might not matter — they go for the lights, the crowd and the spirit. For others, the lack of standout acts makes it harder to justify a ticket.
Whether this year’s crowd shows up in force or not, the name remains: Fremont Street New Years Eve remains the downtown alternative to Strip spectacle. But critics argue this year’s party may only deliver “just the vibe,” not the entertainment.
A decorated RTD bus rolls down 15th Street during 9NEWS’ annual Parade of Lights downtown. Dec. 7, 2024.
Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite
Drunk and drugged driving can be a real temptation in the wee hours of New Year’s morning, after New Year’s Eve festivities have wrapped and sobriety is but a dream.
But there are life or death risks — and real consequences — with that, and the message is clear from officials across the state: Don’t do it.
“There are absolutely no safe levels of drinking or drug use when it comes to driving,” said Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol, in a statement. “We must stop convincing ourselves that we’re ‘OK to drive’ after a drink or two. If you feel different, you drive different. Plan ahead — because one bad decision can change lives forever.”
In that spirit, the Regional Transportation District is offering Zero Fare for New Year’s Eve.
From 7 p.m. on Dec. 31 through 7 a.m. on Jan. 1, all RTD rail and bus lines, Access-a-Ride and FlexRide will be free.
“Ring in the new year without worrying about how you will get home,” said RTD CEO Debra Johnson in a statement. “Thanks to RTD’s continued partnership with Molson Coors, the entire transit system will be fare-free on New Year’s Eve, so customers can focus on celebrating safely.”
And fair warning: There will also be two fireworks shows on 16th Street – one at 9 p.m. and one at midnight. Both will slow down the RTD’s 16th Street FreeRide, causing potential connection problems.
Final trains from Denver’s Union Station include the following:
A Line: 1 a.m.
B Line: 1:09 a.m.
D Line: 12:48 a.m.
E Line: 12:55 a.m.
G Line: 1:01 a.m.
N Line: 1:26 a.m.
W Line: 12:56 a.m.
As for buses, the final rides run as follows:
16th Street FreeRide:
Final departure from Union Station at 12:52 a.m.
Final departure from Civic Center Station at 1:20 a.m.
Services may be paused between 7 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. because of fireworks displays
Route 83L:
Departs Civic Center Station Gate 5 at 1:10 a.m., after which the station will close
Route 15:
Departs Union Station at 12:14 a.m. with the Union Station Bus Concourse closing at 12:45 a.m.
What if you miss your bus or train?
If your New Year’s Day partying goes far beyond midnight, you may need an alternate way to get home.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Uber, the Colorado Department of Transportation and the Colorado State Patrol are offering up to $8-off ride shares for people who use the code JOYFULCO25. To enter it, download the Uber app, go to the Account section, click on Wallet and scroll down to “Add Voucher Code.”
“The holidays should be a time of joy, not heartbreak,” said Uber spokesperson Stefanie Sass, in a statement. “By providing a reliable alternative to drinking and driving, we’re helping Coloradans make the responsible choice to get home safely.”
A platter of Roasted Shrimp with Homemade Cocktail Sauce will be the hit of any party! Shrimp are roasted in olive oil, salt and pepper get a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right out of the oven. And my homemade cocktail sauce is so much more than just horseradish and ketchup. SO delicious and the perfect appetizer for your New Years Eve!
You can’t go wrong with a classic appetizer!
Especially when it’s shrimp. Bonus points if it’s easy. And this roasted shrimp appetizer checks all of those boxes. Plus I’m making homemade cocktail sauce because why not? It’s just as easy and so much better than store-bought.
There’s something magical that happens when shrimp and cocktail sauce meet on your tastebuds. It’s a fresh, spicy burst that’s also buttery and completely and utterly addictive. And this is exactly why if you see me at a party, I’m never standing too far from the shrimp and cocktail sauce.
And because both the roasted shrimp and the cocktail sauce only take a few minutes to whip up, makes this the perfect last minute appetizer!
To Make the Roasted Shrimp you will need:
shrimp – I like to use tail-on, peeled and deveined shrimp – 16/20 per pound.
olive oil – Or avocado oil.
kosher salt – Enhances the flavors of this recipe.
freshly ground black pepper – Lends distinct bite and flavor.
lemon juice – Adds brightness and subtle citrus flavor.
lemon juice – Adds brightness, acidity and subtle flavor.
sriracha – Lends spicy, garlicky, sweet, and tangy flavor.
kosher salt – Enhances the flavors in this recipe.
First, in a medium mixing bowl, 2/3 cup ketchup, 2 to 4 tablespoons horseradish, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon sriracha and the juice of 1/2 a lemon.
Whisk to combine and taste test, seasoning with kosher salt to taste. For this recipe, I made a batch of my homemade ketchup.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Preheat your oven to 425℉ (or 220℃).
Divide 2 pounds of peeled and deveined (tails on!) shrimp among two rimmed sheet pans.
Drizzle each pan with half a tablespoon of olive oil (or about 1-1/2 teaspoons olive oil each.
Then season with a few pinches kosher salt.
Then arrange the shrimp so they aren’t crowding and roast on the middle rack of your preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes. And then repeat with the second batch.
Once roasted, squeeze the juice of 1/2 lemon over top of both pans and season with freshly ground black pepper.
Finally, serve the roasted shrimp at room temperature or chilled with a bowl of homemade cocktail sauce.
Also, as a side note, when serving, set out a small dish for guests to discard their shrimp tails.
Dip, devour and repeat!
Enjoy! And if you give this Roasted Shrimp with Homemade Cocktail Sauce recipe a try, let me know! Snap a photo and tag me on twitter or instagram!
Yield: 10servings
Roasted Shrimp with Homemade Cocktail Sauce
A platter of Roasted Shrimp with Homemade Cocktail Sauce will be the hit of any party! Shrimp are roasted in olive oil, salt and pepper get a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right out of the oven. And my homemade cocktail sauce is so much more than just horseradish and ketchup. SO delicious and the perfect appetizer for your New Years Eve!
2poundsraw shrimp, large, peeled and deveined (thawed if frozen)
1tablespoonolive oil, extra light, plus more if needed
2pincheskosher salt, generous
black pepper, freshly ground
1/2lemon, juiced
FOR THE COCKTAIL SAUCE:
In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, black pepper, sriracha, garlic and onion powder, season with salt to taste and squeeze in the juice of ½ a lemon.
FOR THE SHRIMP:
Preheat your oven to 425℉ (or 220℃).
Next, divide the shrimp among two metal, rimmed baking sheets.
Drizzle each pan with half a tablespoon of olive oil, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Roast for 6 to 8 minutes, remove and squeeze with fresh lemon juice.
Nutrition Disclaimer:All information presented on this site is intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information shared on SimplyScratch.com should only be used as a general guideline.
This recipe was originally posted on December 28th, 2018 and has been updated with clear and concise instructions, new photography and helpful information.
Funke, Kato, and more say farewell to 2025 with lavish meals
Los Angeles’ top restaurants know the best way to welcome the new year is with a satisfied appetite. Marked by decadent dishes and plenty of Champagne, consider the establishments below for your final dining experience of the year.
Alba keeps things festive from appetizers to the clock striking midnight. Here, diners can indulge in caviar add-ons and curated Champagne options before heading to the speakeasy afterparty decked out with disco balls, a Champagne tower and movies like Saturday Night Fever projected on the wall. Reservations are on Resy.
Dante on the rooftop of the Maybourne Beverly Hills.Credit: Photo by Giada Paoloni
Complemented by skyline views, Dante Beverly Hills keeps guests on their toes for an evening of fun. Between canapé bites and culinary station visits, guests can experience the establishment’s award-winning mixology all night long. Reservations are on Resy.
The Sunset Strip stunner ushers guests into a festive setting right upon arrival with a Champagne welcome, followed by intention-setting rituals, specialty cocktails, live entertainment and a countdown. Reservations are available on SevenRooms.
For Angelenos looking for a mellow but tasty night in, Firoelli Pizza teams up with Imperia Caviar on a DIY caviar pizza kit featuring a vodka sauce pizza, a side of crème fraîche, truffle potato chips and an ounce of Imperia’s caviar. Pre-order by phone (424-466-7161) or email ([email protected]) or order through delivery apps.
Funke says goodbye to 2025 with four courses of family-style pasta and pizza excellence. With an optional wine pairing and a splash of Krug champagne to start, highlights include lasagna verde, branzino, prime short rib and cacio e pepe. Reservations are on Resy.
Stephanie Izard of L.A. restaurants Cabra and Girl & the Goat.Credit: Courtesy of Cabra
Chef Stephanie Izard throws a flavorsome New Year’s Eve celebration with menu favorites, new dishes, optional wine pairing, midnight toast and live DJ from 8 p.m. to midnight. Reservations are on OpenTable.
Hotel Casa del MarCredit: Courtesy Hotel Casa del Mar
Hotel Casa del Mar offers a four-course dinner at 8:30 p.m. alongside its Roaring ‘20s-themed celebration in partnership with Cardinal Gold at Terrazza that ends the night with a midnight Champagne toast and balloon drop. Tickets are on Eventbrite.
Kato restaurant at Row DTLACredit: Colleen O’Brien
End the year on a high note by experiencing the talents of the winner of the 2025 James Beard Award for Best Chef: California. Chef Jon Yao and his team expand Kato’s menu with elevated seafood, caviar, desserts and beverage pairings. Plus, diners go home with a canned non-alcoholic beverage to kick off Dry January. Reservations are on Resy.
The Hollywood restaurant’s prix fixe is a choose-your-own culinary adventure with dish options like herbed leek and cauliflower soup, duck fat fries, filet and lobster frites, sweet potato gnocchi with sage browned butter and hazelnut praline and chocolate tres leches. Seatings are at 5 and 9:30 p.m. on Resy, with the final seating including an after party until 2 a.m.
The glamorous Afro-Caribbean restaurant rings in 2026 with a four-course prix fixe accompanied by a DJ, decor, countdown and welcome or toast drink. Reservations are on Resy.
Credit: Headshot courtesy of David Chang; Illustrated by Pixel Pushers
David Chang’s Momofuku restaurant tantalizes with a four-course prix fixe showcasing lobster lo mein; smoked prime rib with aus jus, horseradish creme fraiche and crispy potatoes; grilled branzino with jalapeno and cilantro and served with bok choy and citrus pavlova. Reservations are on OpenTable.
A limited number of seatings are left for Sushi by Scratch’s Champagne & Caviar New Year’s Experience: a 17-course omakase featuring multiple caviar-focused courses and two pours of Champagne. Reservations are available on Tock.
Whether dining in Brentwood or Long Beach, Teleferic Barcelona ensures a luxe New Year’s Eve prix fixe with dishes like truffle octopus, toro paella and more. Reservations are on OpenTable.
The Palos Verdes resort has a variety of New Year’s Eve festivities ranging from family-friendly dinners to 21+ extravaganzas. For a chef-driven experience to bow out from 2025, Mar’sel’s five-course tasting menu satisfies with dishes like risotto with red beets and scallop, Chilean seabass, butter-poached lobster tail and more. Reservations are on OpenTable.
The dining terrace at Ardor.Credit: Nikolas Koenig
Savor a vibrant six-course California cuisine dinner at Ardor, dressed up for the night with a live DJ and decor (Book on OpenTable). The hotel’s Sunset at Edition also hosts the Black & White Masquerade Ball for those looking to have their own Studio 54 experience to welcome 2026 (Book on SevenRooms).
Impact Weather: Fog advisory in place until 9 a.m.
BECAUSE THE PENNY. ANYWAY, LISTEN. SO WE’RE TRACKING IMPACT WEATHER TOMORROW MORNING DID JUST GET A DENSE FOG ADVISORY IN EFFECT FOR FLAGLER, PUTNAM AND MARION COUNTIES. THAT’S GOING TO GO INTO EFFECT OVERNIGHT TONIGHT AND WILL CONTINUE THROUGH 10:00 TOMORROW MORNING. AND I WOULDN’T BE SURPRISED TO SEE SUMTER COUNTY, LAKE COUNTY AND POLK COUNTY ADDED TO THIS. AND OF COURSE, YOU CAN CHECK IN WITH WESH TWO NEWS SUNRISE METEOROLOGIST CAM TRAN WILL BE WITH YOU DARK AND EARLY STARTING AT 5:00 TOMORROW MORNING. VISIBILITY NUMBERS HAVE BEEN DROPPING HERE IN MARION COUNTY DOWN TO A QUARTER MILE AT THE AIRPORT, AND IT’S JUST NOW GETTING INTO DOWNTOWN ABOUT A FIVE MILE VISIBILITY HERE IN WILDWOOD. PERFECT NUMBERS TEN. THERE’S A LITTLE HAZE, BUT NOTHING MORE. GIVE IT SOME TIME THOUGH. THAT FOG WILL CONTINUE TO MOVE THROUGH THE METRO. WATCH OUR FUTURECAST FOG TRACKER. REALLY DEVELOPING THAT FOG OVER THE AREA THROUGH THE OVERNIGHT STRETCH. SO THAT’S WHAT WE’RE WATCHING FOR NOW. FOG DEVELOPING OVERNIGHT TONIGHT INTO TOMORROW MORNING, THEN LOOKING A BIT LONGER TERM BY ABOUT TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY THE TEMPERATURES ARE GOING TO BE PLUMMETING LIKE A MAJOR CHANGE. WHILE TOMORROW THERE’S A BIG SNOWSTORM UP NORTH OF US. IT’S THE COLD FRONT THAT’S ATTACHED TO IT. AND GRADUALLY DRIVES THROUGH THE SOUTHEASTERN UNITED STATES AND ARRIVES INTO OUR AREA OVERNIGHT MONDAY INTO TUESDAY AND WILL CHANGE THOSE TEMPS. SO FOR TOMORROW, TEMPERATURES ARE GOING TO BE IN THE UPPER 70S FOR MONDAY, TEMPERATURES ARE GOING TO BE IN THE UPPER 70S. THEN LOOKING AHEAD TO NEW YEAR’S EVE, HIGH TEMPERATURES WILL BE AT 61 DEGREES. SO TO PUT IT INTO PERSPECTIVE AGAIN, UPPER 70S MONDAY AFTERNOON. TUESDAY WE WAKE UP TO A COOLER 50 ONLY MAKE IT TO THE 60S AND THEN LOOK AT OUR WEDNESDAY. LOOK AT OUR THURSDAY. WAKING UP TO THE 30S AND 40S WITH DAYTIME HIGHS IN THE 60S, FOR EXAMPLE, THIS IS WEDNESDAY MORNING, OKAY, 30 DEGREES IN OCALA, 40 DEGREES IN ORLANDO, 35 FOR US IN LEESBURG. THESE ARE AIR TEMPERATURES. THEN YOU PUSH IN THE WIND CHILL AND IT FEELS LIKE 25. IN OCALA, 34 IN ORLANDO AND 26 IN PALM COAST. SO YEAH, THAT’S A BIG, BIG DIFFERENCE. A LITTLE BIT OF LOW CLOUDINESS. OTHERWISE IT IS AS STILL AS CAN BE. THE PALM TREES AREN’T MOVING AN INCH OVERNIGHT. TONIGHT THE FOG DEVELOPS. WE WAKE UP TOMORROW MORNING TO THE 50S AND 60S UP TO NEARLY 80 DEGREES TOMORROW AFTERNOON. A SPRINKLE OR TWO ON MONDAY AS THAT COLD FRONT APPROACHES. AND THEN OUR TUESDAY, THE TEMPERATURES PLUMMET IN THE AFTERNOON, STRUGGLING TO HIT 62 NEW YEAR’S EVE, NEW YEAR’S DAY GOING TO BE CHILLY, AND WE’RE GOING TO KEEP THA
Central Florida is seeing Impact Weather Thursday morning with a fog advisory in place until 9 a.m.After the fog lifts, it will be a sunny and warm day with highs in the upper 70s. Temperatures are expected to drop on Tuesday with highs in the lower 60s. First Warning Weather Stay with WESH 2 online and on-air for the most accurate Central Florida weather forecast.RadarSevere Weather AlertsDownload the WESH 2 News app to get the most up-to-date weather alerts. The First Warning Weather team includes First Warning Chief Meteorologist Tony Mainolfi, Eric Burris, Kellianne Klass, Marquise Meda and Cam Tran.
Central Florida is seeing Impact Weather Thursday morning with a fog advisory in place until 9 a.m.
After the fog lifts, it will be a sunny and warm day with highs in the upper 70s.
Temperatures are expected to drop on Tuesday with highs in the lower 60s.
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You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.
First Warning Weather
Stay with WESH 2 online and on-air for the most accurate Central Florida weather forecast.
Download the WESH 2 News app to get the most up-to-date weather alerts.
LITTLETON, Colo. — The new year is days away, and many people are prepping their midnight plans. However, in the South Metro Fire District (SMFD), those plans cannot include fireworks.
Arapahoe County is under stage two fire restrictions, which typically ban open burning, campfires, and fireworks, while Douglas and Jefferson counties are under stage one, which generally restricts open burning but allows for some exceptions, according to Brian Willie, public information officer for SMFD.
“So all fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal right now, and it’s unknown when that time will change,” Willie said. “We’ve just seen way too much dry conditions and no moisture in the last couple of weeks. We’re just asking everybody to please leave the fireworks to the professionals and not light anything in your yard or in your area.”
If you’re going to a public fireworks display, Willie said to keep your distance.
If you see smoke or fire, call 911.
Coloradans making a difference | Denver7 featured videos
Denver7 is committed to making a difference in our community by standing up for what’s right, listening, lending a helping hand and following through on promises. See that work in action, in the videos above.
After the crystal ball drops on New Year’s Eve in New York City, it will rise again, sparkling in red, white and blue to usher in 2026 and kick off months of celebrations for the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday.
The patriotic touches at this year’s Times Square gathering, including a second confetti drop, will offer an early glimpse of what’s ahead: hundreds of events and programs, big and small, planned nationwide to mark the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
“I’m telling you right now, whatever you’re imagining, it’s going to be much more than that,” said America250 Chair Rosie Rios, who oversees the bipartisan commission created by Congress in 2016 to organize the semiquincentennial anniversary. “It’s going to be one for the ages, the most inspirational celebration this country and maybe the world has ever seen.”
Rios and her group worked with the Times Square Alliance business district and One Times Square, the building from where the ball is dropped, to make the changes to this year’s ceremonies. They’re also planning a second ball drop event on July 3, the eve of the nation’s birthday, “in the same beautiful style that Times Square knows how to do it,” Rios said.
It will mark the first time in 120 years there will be ball drop in Times Square that doesn’t occur on New Year’s Eve, she said.
A New Year’s Eve ball was first dropped in Times Square in 1907. Built by a young immigrant metalworker named Jacob Starr, the 700-pound, 5-foot-diameter ball was made of iron and wood and featured 100 25-watt light bulbs. Last year, the Constellation Ball, the ninth and largest version, was unveiled. It measured about 12 feet in diameter and weighs nearly 12,000 pounds.
The only years when no ball drop occurred were 1942 and 1943, when the city instituted a nightly “dimout” during World War II to protect itself from attacks. Crowds instead celebrated the new year with a moment of silence followed by chimes rung from the base of One Times Square.
This year, the stroke of midnight will also mark the official launch of America Gives, a national service initiative created by America250. Organizers hope to make 2026 the largest year of volunteer hours ever aggregated in the country.
On the following day, America250 will participate in the New Years Day Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, with a float themed “Soaring Onward Together for 250 Years.” It will feature three larger-than-life bald eagles representing the country’s past, present and future.
“We want to ring in this new year from sea to shining sea. What better way to think about it than going from New York to California,” Rios said. “This has to be community-driven, this has be grassroots. We’re going from Guam to Alaska, from Fairbanks to Philadelphia, and everything in between.”
President Donald Trump has also announced the “Freedom 250” initiative to coordinate additional events for the 250th anniversary.
Rios said she sees the wide range of celebrations and programs planned for the coming months, from large fireworks displays and statewide potluck suppers to student contests and citizen oral histories, as an opportunity to unite a politically divided nation.
“If we can find something for everyone … having those menus of options that people can pick and choose how they want to participate,” she said. “That’s how we’re going to get to engaging 350 million Americans.”
Antonio Brown #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on prior to the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on October 14, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Mitchell Leff
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
As anyone who has lived in the Miami area for any length of time knows, it takes a lot to shock locals. And as a celebrity reporter, especially, I’ve seen my share of eye-popping news stories barreling out of left field.
This past year was no different, with all kinds of unexpected folks showing up on 2025’s bingo card.
So, presenting my top five, in order of shock value:
1. Antonio Brown’s wild, international ride
The former NFL wide receiver probably won’t be posting too many throwback memories on New Year’s Eve. In June, a Miami-Dade judge issued an arrest warrant for Brown, a month after he was filmed getting into a scuffle outside a celebrity boxing event in Little Haiti.
The warrant charged the Liberty City baller with second‑degree attempted murder, alleging he seized a gun from a security guard and fired two shots at a man caught up in the melee, grazing his neck. The rub: Brown was nowhere to be found, having fled almost 8,000 miles away to Dubai.
After a handful of months overseas, the ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneer was brought back to Miami to stand trial, and pleaded not guilty, claiming he acted out of fear for his safety. He was released on $25,000 bond with an ankle monitor under house arrest. Brown’s attorney, Mark Eiglarsh, told the Miami Herald his client used his own weapon and wasn’t aiming at anyone.
“Our detailed motion makes it abundantly clear that my client was forced to defend himself as a direct result of the alleged victim’s violent and aggressive actions,” Eiglarsh said. “We are confident that these charges will be dismissed as a matter of law.”
Miami Heat Head Coach Erik Spoelstra looks on from the sidelines during the second half of an NBA game after the game at Kaseya Center on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in Miami, Florida. D.A. Varela Miami Herald File
2. Coach Spo’s home destroyed
While Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra was flying back from a game in Denver on the team plane in November, a two-alarm blaze was beginning to whip through his Coral Gables mansion. By the time he arrived, the 5,700 square foot property was engulfed in flames, with multiple firefighters on scene. Fortunately, there was no one home at the time of the fire, whose cause is still under investigation. Viral videos from the scene show Spoelstra pacing the demolished property; at one point, he holds his head in disbelief, echoing all of us.
Perhaps the most incredible part of this tragedy? The NBA coach went to work the next day for a game against the Charlotte Hornets.
“Things in the house, those things can be replaced,” said Spoelstra, flanked by his three kids, at a news briefing. “And if they can’t be replaced, what does it really matter? This is really what matters. Family, the closest ones. … We’re just grateful.”
David and Victoria Beckham McClatchy File
3. The Beckhams’ rumored family feud
Miami has its own version of royalty — David and Victoria Beckham, who maintain a luxury pied-à-terre in town. But like that other royal family across the pond, there’s drama behind the scenes. Rumors of a massive fallout with the power couple’s oldest son, Brooklyn, began churning around May, when the aspiring chef failed to show up to dad’s 50th birthday party at Cipriani.
Insiders say issues began as far back as Brooklyn’s 2022 wedding to Palm Beach heiress-actress Nicola Peltz. After the bride opted not to wear one of her mother-in-law’s designs, relations reportedly chilled, and now the situation has gotten even frostier, with Brooklyn unfollowing the InterMiami co-owner and ex pop star on social media. Let’s hope working through this unpleasant chapter tops their list of resolutions (said in the fanciest British accent we can muster).
Julia Lemigova and Adriana de Moura attend the American Humane Hero Dog Awards at The Breakers on November 10, 2023 in Palm Beach, Florida. Mireya Acierto Mireya Acierto/Getty Images
4. The 305 ‘Real Housewives’ antics really are crazier than the other franchises
The bombshells were dropping left and right during the “Real Housewives of Miami” reunion special in October, but two castmates singlehandedly stole the show.
Former besties Julia Lemigova and Adriana de Moura’s feud took such a bizarre turn that even Bravo ringleader Andy Cohen was left speechless. The former beauty queen, who is married to Martina Navratilova, claimed there was friction with the Brazilian art dealer due to a one-night stand years ago. While de Moura didn’t exactly deny the fling, she went on a full-scale attack, labeling Lemigova a “liar” who cheated on the tennis legend with “a Haitian mortician” and gave him a coffeemaker as a gift.
Lemigova later clarified during a separate appearance that the relationship with the gentleman in question occurred in Paris before she was married, and no coffeemaker was involved.
“Adriana takes a piece of truth and wraps it up in a bunch of lies,” said the Russian native.
US rapper Megan Thee Stallion attends the premiere of Amazon Prime Video’s “Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words” at the TCL Chinese theatre in Hollywood, California, October 30, 2024. ETIENNE LAURENT AFP via Getty Images
The “Hot Girl Summer” rapper is beautiful, talented and wildly successful, but inexplicably has her share of haters. If you assumed the South Florida resident would find peace after her ex, hip-hop artist Tory Lanez, was convicted of shooting her in the feet in 2020, you’d be sadly mistaken. In November, Megan ended up having to take the stand at the federal courthouse in downtown Miami in a defamation trial against blogger Milagro Gramz. The Atlanta influencer was accused of online harassment and sharing a “deepfake” AI video of Megan engaged in pornographic acts. A judge ruled in favor of Megan, who was awarded $59,000 in damages.
Bethenny Frankel walks the runway at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show at W South Beach on May 31, 2025 in Miami Beach, Florida. Ivan Apfel Ivan Apfel/Getty Images
Most of the time you see the “Real Housewives of NYC” alum, she’s on our feeds hunting for designer bargains at TJ Maxx or showing us her latest homemade dip on a cracker. Imagine our surprise when the new South Florida resident popped up at the Sports Illustrated show at Miami Swim Week in June, slaying the catwalk like a boss. Frankel, then 54, managed to steal the spotlight from professional (and much younger) models, from the perfectly placed thong and impeccable spray tan to the goddess-like extensions and rock hard abs. Did we mention the fierce attitude? We’ll have what she’s having next year and beyond.
Celebrity/real time news reporter Madeleine Marr has been with The Miami Herald since 2003. She has covered such features as travel, fashion and food. In 2007, she helped launch the newspaper’s daily People Page, attending red carpet events, awards ceremonies and press junkets; interviewing some of the biggest names in show business; and hosting her own online show. She is originally from New York City.
Vegas New Years Eve draws tens of thousands of visitors as the city transforms into a massive celebration zone featuring fireworks, parties, music, and street gatherings. The main attraction is the famous Strip fireworks show, timed to midnight, when resort rooftops explode in color. Dozens of resorts participate, launching coordinated displays that can be seen from many vantage points. Fireworks are supplemented by major celebrations downtown and throughout the city, giving visitors a wide variety of ways to ring in the new year.
The Strip shuts down to traffic early in the evening. By around 6 p.m. major access points to Las Vegas Boulevard are closed and by 8 p.m. the entire Strip becomes a pedestrian-only zone. This closure turns the iconic boulevard into a walking party, allowing revelers to move freely between casinos, hotels, and entertainment venues without worrying about vehicle traffic. As streets fill with crowds, the atmosphere turns into a street festival stretching for miles.
Downtown, another hotspot for celebrations is the area around Fremont Street. There, a large-scale party known for live music, light shows, and a public countdown adds energy for those wanting something other than the Strip crowd. From open-air stages and DJs to a festive crowd under neon lights, the downtown experience offers a lively and more relaxed alternative. For some, it’s a chance to enjoy urban nightlife without navigating the intense density associated with the Strip.
Inside hotels and venues across the city, many offer special events — from rooftop viewing parties to live concerts and nightclub countdowns. Visitors seeking a more curated night can find everything from DJ sets at major clubs to more intimate gatherings with dinner, drinks, and champagne toasts as midnight approaches. For those looking to combine comfort and celebration, this option offers a controlled environment though at a higher cost due to demand.
Public transportation and rideshare are recommended for getting around. With road closures and heavy traffic, driving — especially late at night — can be chaotic and expensive. Many visitors rely on buses, the monorail, or rideshares, though wait times and surge pricing are common. Hotels and venues encourage early arrival due to crowds and limited parking.
Vegas New Years Eve remains one of the world’s most iconic year‑end celebrations, blending fireworks, nightlife, music, and a kaleidoscope of experiences. Whether you prefer the wild energy of the Strip, the downtown vibe, or something more reserved indoors, the options for welcoming the new year in Las Vegas are as varied as the city itself.
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Schedule for Dec 26
If you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party this year, you need appetizers that are easy, crowd-pleasing, and totally irresistible. This hand-picked collection of New Year’s Eve appetizers has everything from warm and cheesy dips to fresh party bites, sliders, bacon-wrapped favorites, and make-ahead options.
Every appetizer is simple to prepare, party-tested, and perfect for ringing in the new year deliciously.
Hot & Cheesy Dips
Warm dips are a must-have on New Year’s Eve! We love dips that are comforting and scoopable, and they are always the first thing guests gather around. These bubbly, cheesy favorites pair perfectly with crackers, veggies, or toasted bread.
These dips and fresh finger foods balance out your spread with bright, bold flavors. They’re easy to prep ahead and perfect for guests who like lighter, refreshing appetizers.
A sweet, creamy dip that tastes just like brownie batter and goes perfectly with fruit, pretzels, or cookies.
Crostini, Sliders & Elegant Small Bites
These elevated appetizers feel fancy but are incredibly easy to assemble. They offer beautiful presentation and outrageous flavor for any NYE gathering.
Warm, melty mini sandwiches brushed with buttery seasonings that are great for feeding a hungry crowd.
Bacon-Wrapped & Oven-Baked Favorites
For irresistible savory appetizers, these bacon-wrapped and oven-fried classics deliver big flavor in bite-sized form. They’re simple, satisfying, and always a hit.
Smoky cocktail sausages wrapped in bacon and baked until caramelized, crispy, and impossibly addictive. These never last long!
Party Snacks & No-Fuss Crowd Pleasers
These simple snacks and dips require minimal prep but deliver maximum enjoyment. They’re ideal for filling out a party table and keeping guests happily munching.
Fun cheese bread twists (or bites) that come together fast and vanish even faster.
No matter how you celebrate, these New Year’s Eve appetizer recipes make it easy to put together a fun and unforgettable spread. Mix and match a few warm dips, a couple of handheld bites, and something fresh or festive to balance the table.
With recipes this simple and delicious, you’ll be free to relax, raise a toast, and enjoy the countdown. Happy New Year — and happy snacking!
Philadelphia is expanding its New Year’s Eve firework shows to include two additional launching points so more people will be able to catch the illuminations from their neighborhoods, officials said Monday.
The city typically has one barge positioned on the Delaware River near Old City to light fireworks, but the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation said during a news conference it will have three vessels spread out along the waterfront so people from Port Richmond to Pennsport can catch the shows at 6 p.m. and midnight.
Ticketed viewing is available at the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, but the spectacle can be seen from rooftops, decks and driveways around Philadelphia, DRWC CEO Joe Forkin said. The 6 p.m. show will also be televised on NBC10 and Telemundo 62, and KYW will simulcast the sounds from both shows on 1060 AM and 103.9 FM.
“We are going to light up the Philly sky for 2026, that means more places across the city for everybody to gather, celebrate and enjoy the magic,” Forkin said.
Earlier this month, the city announced that it would also host a free concert at Eakins Oval on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. LL Cool J will headline, and DJ Jazzy Jeff, Adam Blackstone, Dorothy and Technician the DJ also will perform. Concertgoers can enter the area via Binswanger Triangle or Pennsylvania Avenue and Spring Garden Street. Gates open at 6 p.m. for the show, and performances begin at 8 p.m.
During the event, sanitation trucks will be blocking the roads around the parkway to prevent any vehicles from entering the concert area. For additional safety, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said law enforcement will be deploying drones, helicopters and a marine unit. Attendees will also need to pass through metal detectors on their way into Eakins Oval.
Philadelphia officials said that the New Year’s Eve event will kick off the city’s busy 2026, when it will be hosting World Cup matches, the MLB All-Star Game and the semiquincentennial honoring America’s 250th birthday. Jennifer Nagle, a vice president at the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the city expects to generate $950 million in visitor spending and $1 billion in economic impact for the city in 2026.
Ahead of the concert, the city will begin closing roads to make way for the night’s events. Here’s how to get around.
From 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31, until 6 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1, the following roads will be closed.
•The inner lanes of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway from 20th Street to Eakins Oval • The outer lanes of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway from 22nd Street to Eakins Oval • Eakins Oval • Spring Garden Street from Pennsylvania Avenue to 31st Street • 23rd Street from Pennsylvania Avenue to Eakins Oval • MLK Drive from Sweet Briar Drive to Eakins Oval • Kelly Drive between Eakins Oval and Fairmount Avenue — the inbound lanes of Kelly Drive starting at Fountain Green Drive will close as of 5 p.m.
From noon on Dec. 31 to 1 a.m. on Jan. 1:
•Kelly Drive from Fairmount Avenue to Fountain Green Drive
Philadelphia Police may close additional streets if necessary. In that case, the below streets would close as of 6 p.m. and immediately reopen following the conclusion of the concert and fireworks.
• Spring Garden Tunnel • I-676 off-ramp at 22nd Street • I-676 on-ramp at 22nd Street • I-76 off-ramp at Spring Garden Street going eastbound • 21st Street between Winter Street and Pennsylvania Avenue • 22nd Street between Winter Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
A number of streets will be temporary no parking zones. Cars parked in these areas will be towed and relocated. If that occurs, vehicle owners must call the police district of the area where the car was parked. Those areas are:
• Spring Garden Tunnel • I-676 off-ramp at 22nd Street • I-676 on-ramp at 22nd Street • I-76 off-ramp at Spring Garden Street going eastbound • 21st Street between Winter Street and Pennsylvania Avenue • 22nd Street between Winter Street and Pennsylvania Avenue • 2200–2300 Park Towne Place (north side) • 2200 Pennsylvania Avenue (south side)
Additional road closures will be in place on New Year’s Day to accommodate the Mummers Parade.
I have said it before and I will keep saying it. You need to go to the South of France in the off-season. There is an intimate kind of glamour that feels effortless rather than performative once the summer crowds leave. And this winter, that magic is on full display at Ciro’s Cannes Beach at the Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes, where the iconic Croisette address has transformed into a glittering holiday haven that blends Riviera elegance with a warm, wintertime glow. Cannes is the place to be this Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
A Riviera Winter Fantasy on the Croisette
For the festive season, Ciro’s Cannes Beach sparkles beneath a thousand lights, creating an atmosphere that feels both inviting and unmistakably luxurious. The décor leans into a refined cosy chic aesthetic, with tartan accents woven thoughtfully throughout the space, adding a touch of classic holiday charm while complementing the venue’s timeless tones. The result is a setting that is designed to be immersive, elegant, and of course, photogenic.
From the moment you arrive, you are immersed in the festive transformation. A stunning Christmas arch welcomes guests from the Croisette. At the heart of the beach, three grand Christmas trees stand surrounded by refined decorative elements including wrapped gifts and soft, glowing lights that reflect off the Mediterranean backdrop. Inside, the bar shelves are styled with glass vases and cloches filled with luminous ornaments, while the restaurant space is defined by a sense of transparency, rather than heavy décor. Tables are adorned with glass cloches of varying sizes housing Christmas baubles and figurines arranged in a harmonious seasonal palette of red, blue, and green.
Thoughtful Touches for Families with Children
Ciro’s festive programming also makes space for its youngest guests. A dedicated children’s writing workshop invites little ones to write letters to Santa in a warm, playful setting complete with paper, pens, stickers, and a magical mailbox installed on site. It is a charming detail that reinforces the venue’s ability to balance elegance with family friendly fun.
New Year’s Eve in Cannes at Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes
To close out the year, Ciro’s Cannes Beach invites guests to welcome 2026 on December 31, 2025, beginning at 7:30 PM, with a seaside celebration overlooking the Mediterranean. The evening pairs fine dining with Riviera chic, brought to life by a live strolling band that sets a festive yet refined tone throughout the night. The New Year’s Eve menu is priced at 290 euros per person excluding drinks and includes a glass of R de Ruinart Brut Champagne at midnight along with mineral water, while a children’s menu is available for guests under 12 at 60 euros excluding drinks.
While I highly recommend also summering on the Riviera, winter offers something that only the in-the-know, know. Cannes in the winter is sunny, quiet and joyfully fun. So add the off-season in the South of France to your list this winter.
What better way to welcome 2026 than with a Las Vegas New Year’s Eve? And this year that includes huge concerts, big name DJs, rooftop parties, and of course, fireworks! So, let’s get the countdown started right here, right now, This Week in Gambling! If you’re ringing in the New Year in Las Vegas, get ready for parties, pyrotechnics, and some questionable decision making.
But before the champagne flows and the fireworks explode, you might be able to sneak in a show! And this year, some huge names will be performing up and down the Las Vegas strip, both before and after the celebration, including Jennifer Lopez at Caesar’s Palace and Jelly Roll at the Cosmo. Bruno Mars takes the stage at Park MGM, while Wayne Newton packs them in at Flamingo.
Meanwhile, classic rock legends Toto will hit Fontainebleau as John Fogerty plays Planet Hollywood. Then the Backstreet Boys will light up the sphere with Duran Duran at Fontainebleau January 1st and 2nd. After those Las Vegas New Year’s Eve shows, head for one of the many parties scattered around town as drinks will flow at the Durango, Caesars, Win and Aria. You can join the countdown to midnight at one of these locals as well, with parties at Resorts World, the Rio, Red Rock, and Venetian.
Meanwhile, Bellagio and Cosmo will ring in the New Year with food and drinks. Plus, you can even find masquerade parties to say goodbye to 2025. Add some elevation to your plans when you check out one of the rooftop celebrations at Circa’s Legacy Club, the Ghost Bar at Palms, or the Beer Park at Paris. You can also welcome in 2026 at the Rio’s Voodoo Lounge, the famous Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay, or the highest of them all, the Top of the World New Year’s Eve party at the Strat.
Of course, if those Las Vegas New Year’s Eve parties are not wild enough for you, or the concerts aren’t loud enough for you, there’s always the nightclubs. And this New Year’s Eve, all the major Vegas clubs will ring in the new year with some help, like DJ Paulie, who will be at the Cosmos Marquee Club, or Steve Aoki, who will take you into next year at the Hakkasan Club inside of MGM Grand. Meanwhile, the Ying Yang Twins will be at the Venetians TAO Nightclub. And not too far away, John Summit will hit the Live at Fontainebleau. Also, KAOS will be open for this year’s celebration at the Palms.
Finally, this week, the main event of New Year’s Eve for most people are the fireworks. And if you were lucky enough, or smart enough to plan ahead, then you may have a hotel room facing the Strip. If not, there are several locations with good views. And in truth, you could enjoy the show from just about anywhere on Las Vegas Boulevard. But if you want a prime location, then gather in front of one of these resorts. With Caesar’s Palace being the most central, and the most crowded spot.
If you’re downtown, the Plaza’s New Year’s Eve fireworks will be the only show around. Your best views will be on Main Street, which they close off to traffic. Meanwhile, the outside of the Sphere will countdown the New Year at various cities around the world before the countdown to midnight in Vegas, with the fireworks from the Strip in the background. And so, my friends, that’s a wrap… and not just for this video, but for 2025 as this is our last show of the year. I wish you all an amazing and safe holiday, and we’ll see you in 2026!
Looking for New Year’s plans? There’s plenty to do in NYC.
Photo via Getty Images
As the holiday season quickly approaches, planning ahead can make New Year’s Eve in New York City even more magical. While the holiday is celebrated around the world, nowhere does it quite like NYC— where tradition, spectacle, and community come together to take the celebrations to the next level.
This year, the iconic 7ft “2026” numerals will arrive in Duffy Square mid-December, giving visitors a chance to snap some pictures before taking their eyes to the sky. The famous Times Square ball drop takes place on top of the One Times Square building, and viewers are encouraged to arrive early— very early— to secure the best viewing spot possible.
To catch the best view of the ball, head to Broadway, between 43rd Street and 50th Street, or along Seventh Avenue up to 59th Street. The ball is raised at 6:00 p.m. on December 31, and at 11:59 p.m. sharp, the ball will start its 60-second descent, signifying the start of the new year.
This year’s Times Square festivities include performances by Mark Ambor, Mickey Guyton, Carrie Underwood, Megan Moroney, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, the Jonas Brothers, TLC, Rita Ora, Greeicy, De La Ghetto, Kapo, and the dance group AGNEW.
But Times Square isn’t the only way to celebrate— NYC is full of incredible alternatives for every budget and vibe. Here you can find some private hosted parties.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to ring in the new year, Grand Army Plaza in Prospect Park will be hosting a fireworks show around midnight, launched in Long Meadow. The event has been going on for 45 years, with New Year’s cheer, live music, and fireworks! This is a cherished Brooklyn tradition that has been bringing the community together for decades on end. RSVP is encouraged.
Central Park is hosting its annual Midnight Run, the healthiest way to jump into 2026. Partake in a 4-mile run winding through New York’s very own Central Park. To participate in the race, runners must register, but if you aren’t interested in running, Central Park will be hosting a fireworks show of their own, accompanied by music, dancing, and thousands of community members coming together to ring in the New Year.
Another core memory moment is walking the Brooklyn Bridge at Midnight. Here, you’ll see an array of fireworks lining the New York City skyline. If you’d rather be stationary, the Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO is a great ground-level view of the fireworks, which will light up the bridge.
No matter what vibe you choose to ring in the New Year— amongst the crowds of Times Square or under the glowing fireworks at the Brooklyn Bridge, NYC offers countless ways to welcome the New Year.
As the year winds down, the city’s dining scene lights up as brightly as the fireworks over Navy Pier. Ring in 2026 with exciting New Year’s Eve events in Chicago, including glamorous parties, live music, and ABC’s Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve — broadcasting live from Chicago for the first time ever.
But before the confetti comes down, restaurants across the city are serving up their own showstoppers. Kick off your New Year’s Eve with an unforgettable dinner in Chicago, featuring curated tasting menus, seasonal specials, and champagne toasts from the city’s most noteworthy restaurants.
Restaurants open for New Year’s Eve in Chicago
Alpana, photo by Anthony Tahlier
Adalina: Look forward to a celebratory four‑course dinner paired with Perrier‑Jouët Champagne, then stay for Adalina After Dark — complete with a welcome cocktail, late‑night bites, themed decor, and a live DJ to keep the good vibes going.
Alinea: Celebrate with an immersive, multi‑sensory tasting menu that spotlights unexpected ingredients, tableside theatrics, and — for patrons with late-night NYE reservations — a midnight champagne toast.
Alpana: A globally inspired three‑course prix fixe dinner menu sets the stage at this Gold Coast restaurant, with your choice of an intimate dining room table or a cozy spot on the heated terrace.
Bistronomic: This Parisian bistro’s four‑course menu includes lavish dishes, such as wild duck pithivier with truffle sauce and the iconic Grand Marnier soufflé, plus expert-led wine selections.
Boka: Indulge in a special nine‑course tasting menu highlighting Hokkaido uni, foie gras, caviar, black truffle, Australian wagyu, and more — plus, take it up a notch with an optional reserve wine pairing.
Bronzeville Winery: This contemporary American destination in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood blends art, community, and cuisine into oner unforgettable dining experience.
Cabra: Take in sweeping West Loop views while enjoying a family‑style, Peruvian-inspired menu showcasing six courses by chef Stephanie Izard, with complimentary bubbles and live music to round out the evening.
Carnivale: Expect an open bar and irresistible dinner buffet inspired by Latin flavors, along with an all-night celebration with a live DJ, dazzling performers, and a midnight balloon drop that turns the space into the city’s most dynamic dance floor.
The Duplex: Known for its rotating menu, this Black-owned gem in Logan Square turns indulgence into art with a four‑course NYE feast of luxe starters, decadent mains, and sweet-tooth-approved desserts.
Esme: The Michelin-starred restaurant, famous for its artistic platings, is offering an exquisite tasting menu and an optional wine pairing.
Frontier: The four-hour Oxtails and Cocktails event features Caribbean-inspired bites and cocktails, in addition to tracks spun by a live DJ and a festive midnight toast.
HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen: Enjoy New Year’s Eve dinner at this Pilsen hot spot that combines traditional Vietnamese flavors and contemporary flair.
Geja’s Café: One of the city’s most romantic dining destinations is offering a three-course interactive fondue dinner, featuring beef tenderloin, Australian lobster tail, Gulf shrimp, and more.
Grill on 21: Ascend 21 stories at the LaSalle Hotel Chicago to experience four elegant courses — with choices ranging from lobster bisque to beef Wellington — live music, champagne at midnight, and breathtaking downtown views.
HIDE+SEEK: Spend New Year’s Eve with exclusive late‑night seating accompanied by a bottle of bubbly and caviar on arrival, à la carte dining, live music from DJ Capslock and saxophonist Oskar Sax, and a midnight champagne toast to close out 2025.
Kindling: Raise a glass to the year ahead with chef Jonathon Sawyer’s six‑course winter feast by the fireplace, starting with a welcome cocktail and unfolding into layered flavors and optional drink pairings designed to keep the evening warm and celebratory.
La Serre: Come to Fulton Market for a four‑course tasting of signature dishes inspired by French and Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh vegetables, seafood, and premium cuts of beef sizzle over a charcoal hearth.
Mirra: In Bucktown, this buzzy fusion spot is offering a four-course tasting menu for New Year’s Eve, featuring their signature South Asian and Mexican flavors.
Esmé
The Dining Room at Moody Tongue, Photo courtesy of Jordan Balderas
Momotaro: Enter the Kaigi Room for an intimate nine‑course omakase, with chef Gene Kato and his team presenting pristine cold‑water fish, chef-selected nigiri, and soulful seasonal dishes, elevated by an optional five‑pour sake pairing.
Moody Tongue: This Michelin-starred brewery is offering diners two options for New Year’s: a casual meal at The Bar or an elevated ten-course tasting menu in The Dining Room.
Nisos Prime: From wagyu meatballs and steak frites to crave-worthy desserts like Basque cheesecake, the four‑course dinner at this Mediterranean steakhouse is your ticket to a deliciously satisfying New Year’s Eve.
NoMI: Overlooking The Magnificent Mile, the Park Hyatt’s on-site restaurant offers a NYE dinner of lobster pappardelle, wagyu prime rib, sushi galore, and more. And after dinner, enjoy live music, late‑night bites, and a champagne toast to keep the party buzzing past midnight.
North Pond: Nestled away in the scenic Lincoln Park neighborhood, this classic Chicago institution will be serving an exclusive six-course tasting menu for NYE revelers.
Prime & Provisions: Linger over an unforgettable four‑course tasting menu that unites timeless house classics with festive flair, setting the tone for a one-of-a-kind New Year’s Eve.
Rose Mary: A family‑style four‑course dinner in Fulton Market brings together the warmth of Italian tradition and the zest of Croatian coastal cooking, with celebrity chef Joe Flamm leading the way.
Sifr: Head to this Michelin-recognized restaurant in River North for a five-course lineup that playfully melds Middle Eastern culinary traditions with a contemporary edge.
Staytion Market & Bar: Count down in style with a chef-curated NYE dinner menu, spirited cocktails by an in-house mixologist, and champagne specials that keep the fun flowing.
TZUCO: Chef Carlos Gaytán’s thoughtful tasting menu reimagines Mexico’s robust flavors with a modern sensibility. Optional wine and cocktail pairings are available.
Vela Bar y Cocina: Savor a prix fixe menu with a beverage included, featuring Mexican‑inspired favorites and one‑night‑only creations, all in the vibrant heart of River North.
Virtue: In Hyde Park, this award-winning restaurant will be serving up classic Southern American flavors in dishes like blackened catfish and buttered grits.
Content Warnings: violence, murder, sexual assault, substance abuse, infidelity
Summary:New Year’s Eve hits different in your thirties. Especially when the party ends in murder.
It used to be an annual thing—the raucous New Year’s party full of games and hors d’oeuvres. But for Olivia and her friends, the chaos of their thirties has really challenged the definition of annual. It’s been a few years since the close friends were last…close. But this year is gonna be different. The burnout, parenting stress, credit card debt, job drama, marriage troubles, addiction—they’re going to set it all aside for the night. No, really. They swear.
Oh, except for the secrets. Every last person has one… But secrets are only as good as the people you trust to keep them, and when the wrong one slips out…well, friends or not, that just might become motive for murder.
Everybody thinks they know their closest friends—until somebody winds up dead.
Image Source: Photo Courtesy of HarperCollins
New Year’s Eve is usually all about fresh starts and glittery optimism. But for Olivia and her long-time friends, that midnight countdown comes with a body count. Jenna Satterthwaite’s The New Year’s Party turns a familiar reunion scenario on its head with a story that’s both relatable and jaw-dropping. Written in a style that’s conversational yet polished, it draws readers in with wry humor and mounting suspense.
1. Old Friends, New Drama
After years of adulting (careers, kids, mortgages), Olivia and her once inseparable high school friends have drifted apart. This New Year’s Eve is their big chance to reconnect. From the moment they reunite, it’s clear each person is lugging more baggage than the overnight kind. Burnout at work? Check. Marriage on the rocks? Definitely.
Each thirtysomething in the room wears a polite party face that barely disguises the personal chaos underneath. It’s a scenario many readers in their late twenties or thirties will recognize: a bittersweet mix of nostalgia and the stark reality that growing up often means growing apart. And as this story shows, sometimes those old friendships hide new secrets capable of sparking serious fireworks.
2. Champagne, Confetti, And Crime
The setting is a classic New Year’s house party in the Midwest, complete with hors d’oeuvres, silly party games, and champagne fizzing over plastic flutes. There’s an almost cinematic quality to the backdrop: imagine a cozy living room decked with twinkle lights and half-forgotten inside jokes. It all feels comfortingly familiar until the stroke of midnight approaches and the atmosphere shifts from festive to foreboding.
The author uses the holiday’s bubbly energy as a clever contrast to the darkness lurking among the guests. One minute, the friends are clinking glasses, and the next minute, we’re reminded that this isn’t your typical New Year’s bash. The confetti isn’t the only thing hitting the floor tonight. By the time the clock strikes twelve, someone will be dead, and that glittery party backdrop suddenly feels more chilling than cheerful.
3. No Resolutions, Just Revelations
If New Year’s is about resolving to change, these friends are more focused on revealing what’s been hidden. Every guest at Olivia’s party has a secret (or three) tucked away, and watching those secrets spill out is half the thrill. Satterthwaite masterfully unravels the group’s tangled web of lies and grudges through sharp dialogue and tense exchanges. Little confessions drop like unexpected party favors, each one upping the stakes.
Did someone just confess to an affair under their breath, or is that a hint of financial disaster behind a forced smile? With each reveal, alliances in the room shift on a dime. It’s the kind of drama that feels uncomfortably real (who hasn’t worried about a friend blabbing a confidence after a few drinks?), yet it escalates into deliciously high-stakes territory. In The New Year’s Party, secrets aren’t just social ticking bombs; they’re motives, each potent enough to push someone over the edge.
4. Ten Perspectives, One Wild Night
The novel doesn’t stick to one storyteller. Instead, it hands the mic to nearly everyone at the party. That means we hop between multiple characters’ viewpoints, each chapter peeling back a new layer of the night’s events. This narrative style gives readers a 360-degree view of the chaos. We see grudges, fears, and long-held resentments from every angle. It’s an ambitious move, but it pays off by making the mystery feel rich and communal.
Every friend has their moment to shine or incriminate themselves. The shifting perspectives mimic the vibe of actually being at the party: snippets of whispered conversations, side glances, and private thoughts that only we, the readers, get to piece together. It might sound like a lot to track, but the narrative keeps each voice distinct enough that you quickly remember who’s who and who’s hiding what.
5. Twists And Turns (Spoiler-Free!)
It’s hard to talk about the best parts of a murder mystery without giving things away, but here’s what can be said: The New Year’s Party does not disappoint when it comes to twists. The novel opens with a bang, quite literally, as we find out in the first few pages that one of the friends is dead. From there, the story rewinds to the morning of the party and methodically builds suspense.
Every chapter ends on a note that dares you not to read the next. Satterthwaite plants red herrings throughout, so just when you think you’ve figured out the victim or the culprit, another curveball hits. By the final chapters, multiple mini-bombs drop, each one more shocking than the last. It’s a thrill ride that will make you second-guess every character’s alibi. Best of all, the big reveal lands with a satisfying punch, leaving no loose ends in the confetti.
6. A Thriller Worth RSVPing
At its heart, The New Year’s Party is both a cautionary tale and a celebration of the messy bonds between friends. It asks how well we really know the people we grew up with, and how much we’ve all changed since high school. The narrative flows like a lively conversation, mixing nostalgia and shock in equal measure. For a younger audience, especially, the story feels fresh and dynamic, addressing modern anxieties (hello, burnout and social media envy) while delivering old-school thriller payoffs.
It’s a page-turner that can make you cringe in recognition one moment and gasp in surprise the next. Polished yet playful, this novel has the irresistible vibe of a New Year’s Eve party you’d hate to miss (minus the actual homicide, of course). In the end, Jenna Satterthwaite serves up a fizzy cocktail of suspense and insight that goes down easy with a wicked aftertaste!
The New Year’s Party manages to be both a razor-sharp friendship drama and a crackling murder mystery that leaves you breathless by midnight.
