Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago is preparing to welcome the New Year with a series of events and celebrations on Tuesday, December 31. Highlights include fireworks at Navy Pier and along the Riverfront, as well as the NHL Winter Classic at Wrigley Field.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) advises attendees to remain vigilant in crowds and report any suspicious activities by calling 9-1-1. OEMC will oversee citywide activities, coordinating with public safety resources such as the Chicago Police Department, Chicago Fire Department, and various city infrastructure departments.

Traffic Control Aides will be present to manage traffic flow. Public transportation is recommended for convenience. For details on CTA services, visit TransitChicago.com or call 312-836-7000.

OEMC emphasizes the importance of the "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign, urging citizens to report any unusual activities. Resources are available at Chicago.gov/OEMC.

The city partners with ART on THE MART for a New Year's Eve celebration along the Chicago River. Events commence at 10 p.m., featuring custom projections that highlight ART on THE MART's programming. The evening concludes with a fireworks display from six bridges starting at midnight.

Optimal viewing locations for the fireworks are along Upper Wacker Drive between McClurg Court and Franklin Street. Certain bridges will close from 11:45 p.m. to 12:15 a.m., while bridge sidewalks close earlier from 4:30 p.m. Public transport is encouraged for easy access.

Navy Pier will host a separate fireworks show lasting 15 minutes at midnight, alongside other day-long events. Details can be found at NavyPier.org.

Hockey fans can enjoy the NHL Winter Classic between the Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues at Wrigley Field starting at 4 p.m., with further information available via mlb.com/cubs.

Additionally, a New Year’s Eve 5K race takes place along the lakefront starting from Theater on the Lake, located at 2401 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, beginning at 9 a.m. More details are available at NewYearsEve5k.com.

Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions through local media or apps like Chicago OEMC App which offers preparedness tips and emergency alerts.

OEMC issues alerts via NotifyChicago.org for weather updates and emergencies, including specific alerts for lakefront notices ("CHILAKE") and business-related updates ("CHIBIZ").

For more information about emergency preparedness, visit Chicago.gov/OEMC or follow OEMC on social media platforms including Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).