When it comes to bidding adieu to 2019 and starting the decade in good spirits, Chicago offers quite a few festivities to mark the occasion. Whether you’re in the mood to dress up and party, join other revelers for the midnight countdown, or enjoy a meal and views with your favorite people, here are some fantastic ways to celebrate on New Year’s Eve!
Nice and Early
Parents who want their kids to be part of the fun don’t have to wait until after the sun goes down. The Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier is hosting Noon Year’s Eve on Tuesday, December 31st, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 in the Great Hall. The all-ages event begins with arts and crafts, and the little ones get to make their very own crown, which they can wear to the dance party leading up to the big confetti drop when the clock strikes noon.
Cruising Into 2020 Like…
What an awesome way to usher in the New Year than on the water onboard a scenic dinner cruise of Chi-Town? The Spirit of Chicago offers a New Year’s Eve Lunch Cruise on December 31, 2019, complete with a delicious buffet-style lunch menu, complimentary hot coffee and tea, and a stocked cash bar, as well as dancing and DJ entertainment. Boarding begins at 11 a.m. at Navy Pier, and the cruise takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Lake Michigan.
For those who want an evening experience, Odyssey Cruises takes guests on the Chicago River for its Riverfront New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dinner that departs from the River Esplanade and includes a savory menu, Platinum open bar and champagne toast at midnight, DJ entertainment, dancing and excellent seats to the fireworks show. Boarding starts at 8:30. The cruise takes place from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Party Favors and Fireworks
Colorful pyrotechnics will illuminate the Chicago skyline, and everyone will want to be in a nice spot. 360 Chicago invites thrill-seekers to grab a few party favors, sip on sparkling wine, and take in the spectacular fireworks, as well as unlimited rides on the TILT thrill ride all night long.
Over at the Riverwalk, there will be plenty of room to marvel at the free New York Eve Blast from local restaurants and other happening venues, and last, but certainly not least, Navy Pier will continue its timeless tradition of perfectly synchronized fireworks over Lake Michigan. Be there.