New Year’s Eve celebrations are finally here, and TV networks are pulling out all the stops to welcome 2026 in style. From Times Square to Nashville, viewers can enjoy star-studded performances, celebrity hosts, and iconic countdown moments—all from home.
Here’s your complete guide to the major New Year’s Eve TV specials, including Ryan Seacrest’s Rockin’ Eve, Nashville’s Big Bash, CNN’s live coverage, and more.
🎤 Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve 2026 with Ryan Seacrest
Time: đź•— 8:00 p.m. ET
Channel: ABC
Streaming: Hulu
The most iconic New Year’s Eve broadcast returns with Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve, hosted by Ryan Seacrest.
Broadcasting live from New York City and spanning multiple time zones—including Las Vegas, Chicago, and Puerto Rico—this year’s edition is the longest telecast in show history, featuring an extra 90 minutes of programming.
🎶 Performing Artists Include:
- 50 Cent
- Post Malone
- Pitbull
- Ciara
- Chance the Rapper
- Goo Goo Dolls
- AJR
- 4 Non Blondes
Expect massive performances, celebrity appearances, and the legendary Times Square Ball Drop at midnight.
🎸 New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash
Time: đź•— 8:00 p.m. ET
Channel: CBS
Streaming: Paramount+
Country music fans won’t want to miss New Year's Eve Live: Nashville's Big Bash, broadcasting live from Music City.
Hosted by comedian Bert Kreischer and country star HARDY, the five-hour celebration blends country, gospel, and R&B, culminating in Nashville’s famous Music Note Drop and fireworks.
🎵 Featured Performers:
- Jason Aldean
- Lainey Wilson
- Bailey Zimmerman
- CeCe Winans
- Fisk Jubilee Singers
🥂 NBC’s “A Toast to 2025”
Time: đź•Ą 10:30 p.m. ET
Channel: NBC
Streaming: Peacock
For a relaxed and nostalgic send-off to the year, NBC presents A Toast to 2025, co-hosted by real-life best friends Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb.
The two-hour special features:
- Celebrity interviews
- Heartfelt moments
- Pop culture highlights
- Hollywood reflections
Perfect if you prefer conversation and memories over live concerts.
🎙️ CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live with Anderson Cooper & Andy Cohen
Time: đź•— 8:00 p.m. ET
Channel: CNN
Streaming: CNN digital platforms
Returning live from Times Square, New Year’s Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen delivers humor, surprises, and unscripted moments.
🌟 Celebrity Performances:
- Shakira (live from Florida)
- Bryan Adams (Madison Square Garden)
- Brandy & Monica
- Robyn
Known for its candid vibe and unexpected laughs, CNN’s coverage remains a fan favorite.
đź“ş Quick Viewing Guide
| Show | Time (ET) | Channel | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve | 8:00 PM | ABC | Hulu |
| Nashville’s Big Bash | 8:00 PM | CBS | Paramount+ |
| CNN New Year’s Eve Live | 8:00 PM | CNN | CNN platforms |
| A Toast to 2025 | 10:30 PM | NBC | Peacock |
🎆 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving high-energy concerts, celebrity interviews, or classic countdown vibes, New Year’s Eve 2026 offers something for everyone. Pick your channel, grab your snacks, and get ready to welcome the New year 🎊
