Illinois offers a wide assortment of activities and events for locals and tourists searching for memorable entertainment and experiences on New Year’s Eve. While Chicago is definitely a popular destination for some of the largest and hottest parties in the state, other cities throughout the state also offer interesting festivities ranging from themed throwback parties and bashes to kid-friendly afternoon celebrations to welcome in the New Year.
Known as Chicago’s longest running annual New Year’s Eve party, The Drake Hotel attracts thousands of attendees from all over the world. Celebrate the New Year “Vegas style” in six ballrooms with Chicago’s hottest DJs, an open bar all night with premium spirits, a hors d'oeuvres buffet, complimentary party favors, and two incredible balloon drops at midnight.
Ring in the New Year in 1920’s style at Venue 1929’s New Year Eve Party in the heart of downtown Springfield. This upscale, formal event features five hours of luxe entertainment, dancing, and music in addition to complimentary drinks, hors D’oeuvres, and charcuterie. Attendees also enjoy a midnight champagne toast to ring in the New Year.
Chicago’s biggest New Year’s Eve party at Navy Pier is held in the opulent and historic Aon Grand Ballroom. This world-class event features live band and DJ entertainment, premium catering, dancing, premium spirits, gourmet-passed appetizers, party favors, optional VIP upgrades, and a festive midnight countdown followed by Navy Pier’s famous fireworks show at midnight.
Party like it’s 1984 at the New Year’s Eve 80’s Bash at the Hard Rock Casino in Rockford. Listen to your favorite 80’s music at this throwback party featuring a premier retro party band playing the largest assortment of 80’s pop and rock hits to transport you back in time as your ring in the New Year. Don’t forget to enjoy the Hard Rock Casino’s dining options and huge gaming space.
Celebrate the roaring 20’s at the most upscale New Year’s Eve event in Chicago - the Gatsby’s House New Year’s Eve Celebration at the Palmer House Hotel. Enjoy live entertainment from Chicago’s top DJs, multiple fully-staffed bars with prepaid drinks for all, casino games with prizes to win, complimentary hors d'oeuvres, festive party favors for everyone, an exclusive VIP area, and a spectacular countdown experience.
Welcome in the New Year surrounded by lyrical beauty at the New Year’s Eve Pops & Viennese Celebration. Located at the McAninch Arts Center at the College of DuPage, this concert features a celebratory and festive program with beautiful ensembles, soothing Opera, and a champagne toast.
Create lasting memories with the kids this New Year’s Eve at the DuPage Children’s Museum’s Bubble Bash in Naperville. This family-friendly, year-end celebration is an annual tradition featuring cool tunes, a countdown with confetti and bubbles, plus many hands-on exhibits and special activities to explore throughout the museum.
Kick off the New Year at the Silver Creek Saloon’s New Year’s Eve party in Belleville. Attendees enjoy live rock and roll entertainment, a delicious dinner, an open bar until midnight, and a midnight champagne toast in a casual, welcoming venue.