{"id":70824,"date":"2025-12-26T10:19:06","date_gmt":"2025-12-26T10:19:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/70824\/"},"modified":"2025-12-26T10:19:06","modified_gmt":"2025-12-26T10:19:06","slug":"your-guide-for-ringing-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/70824\/","title":{"rendered":"Your guide for ringing in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

The year 2026 is almost upon us, and, in case you haven\u2019t heard, it\u2019s going to be a lot<\/a>! But before we get to the Philly Firsts, and World Cup matches, and baseball All-Star Games, and Fourth of July celebrations, we need to ring in the new year.<\/p>\n

Even here, though, 2026 is coming in with something special <\/a>\u2014 an inaugural concert on the Parkway, featuring LL Cool J, and the biggest fireworks show ever in Philly (see highlight below for details).<\/p>\n

But it\u2019s far from the only way to ring in the new year. From fireworks to family-friendly \u201cball drops,\u201d Billy Penn has pulled together a list of your options. They all happen on Wednesday, Dec. 31, unless otherwise noted.<\/p>\n

Highlights\u00a0<\/p>\n

Visit PA\u2019s NYE Fireworks on the Waterfront<\/p>\n

One of the biggest highlights <\/a>of the New Year will be the extensive fireworks display on the Delaware Waterfront at 6 p.m. and midnight on Wednesday, Dec. 31. You can view the display for free from many spots along the river \u2013 including Penn\u2019s Landing, The Independence Seaport Museum, and the Rivers Casino. Our events list will note whether you can view the fireworks display from certain celebrations as well.\u00a0<\/p>\n

City of Philadelphia NYE Concert and Fireworks Show<\/p>\n

Enjoy lively music and a fireworks display<\/a> at the city\u2019s free NYE concert and fireworks display<\/a> on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the concert, which features headliner LL Cool J and special guests DJ Jazzy Jeff, Adam Blackstone, Dorothy and Technician the DJ, will start at 8 p.m. The concert will be followed by a fireworks show at midnight.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Family fun<\/p>\n

For those with little ones (or families hoping for an earlier night), some organizations around the city are accommodating.<\/p>\n

Countdown to 2026 at The Please Touch Museum<\/p>\n

Choose from two time slots \u2013 9 to 11:30 a.m. or 1 to 3:30 p.m. \u2013 to ring in the New Year with your little ones. The event will feature a live DJ, arts and crafts, access to museum exhibits and more. A VIP ticket adds in priority entrance, special swag, a photo op and exclusive crafts. Plus, each time slot offers a countdown and ball drop. Get your tickets here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Kids\u2019 New Year\u2019s Eve Countdown at Franklin Square<\/p>\n

Ring in the New Year with an earlier celebration<\/a> at Franklin Square Park from 5 to 8 p.m. The event kicks off with crafts and festivities for the whole family, and a \u201csquare drop\u201d will follow at 6 p.m. Attendees can play a round of Chilly Philly Mini Golf at the park, practice street curling or dine at Frosty\u2019s Fireside Lounge in the park. The event is free, and the park will close for the night at 8 p.m.\u00a0<\/p>\n

PopUpPlay New Year\u2019s Eve Countdown at Cherry Street Pier\u00a0<\/p>\n

Celebrate New Year\u2019s Eve on the Delaware River waterfront with Cherry Street Pier\u2019s ticketed event from 5 to 7 p.m. For $27 per person, enjoy crafts, music and activities, a view of the waterfront\u2019s fireworks display at 6 p.m., and a cash bar for parents. Get your tickets here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\u201cNoon\u201d Year\u2019s Eve at Smith Memorial Playground\u00a0<\/p>\n

For an earlier celebration, head over to Smith Memorial Playground in Fairmount for a free \u201ccountdown to noon\u201d event. Snacks, music, crafts and giveaways are on the activity list ahead of the \u201cnoon drop surprise.\u201d The event<\/a> will run from 10 a.m. to noon.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Betsy\u2019s 247th Birthday Bash at the Betsy Ross House<\/p>\n

For more of a historical twist, celebrate the January 1st birth of Betsy Ross at the Betsy Ross House\u2019s special event. An enactor will perform as Mary Crathorne, an 18th-century chocolate maker, and show her techniques and provide treats to attendees. Admission to the event<\/a> is free with a house tour ticket. It runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Early NYE Celebration at Dave & Buster\u2019s\u00a0<\/p>\n

Experience unlimited video game play, a $20 game card, and a curated chef\u2019s banquet at Dave & Buster\u2019s early NYE celebrations. Choose from<\/a> an 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. time slot, or a 4 to 7 p.m. time slot (6 p.m. fireworks are included here). From ginger ale toasts to video ball drops, you can simulate NYE while being home well before midnight. Tickets start<\/a> at $33.79 per person.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Wednesday, Dec. 31 & Thursday, Jan. 1: Ice Skating\u00a0<\/p>\n

Head over to the Rothman Orthopedics Ice Rink outside of City Hall or The RiverRink at the Delaware River Waterfront on New Year\u2019s Eve and New Year\u2019s Day for ice skating fun for the whole family.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The Rothman Orthopedics Ice Rink will be open from 12 to 9 p.m. on both days, and you can reserve a 90-minute slot<\/a>. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children, and is an extra $10 per skate rental. After skating, enjoy the holiday festivities around the rink<\/a> and grab a bite to eat or a drink inside the Rothman Orthopedics Cabin<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The Blue Cross RiverRink will be offering skating specials for its \u201cNYE Parties on Ice.\u201d The event has time slots from 5 to 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Enjoy as a spectator or skater and experience a view of the Visit PA NYE Fireworks, get one complimentary ferris wheel ride, and have access to arcade games, soft drinks, a cash bar, and more. Tickets<\/a> are $63 for skaters and $53 for spectators.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Entertainment\u00a0<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for a less-crowded spot than the city\u2019s NYE concert<\/a> or Visit PA\u2019s fireworks display<\/a>, you\u2019ve got other options! From orchestras to golf games, here\u2019s some more options.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Celebration at SOUTH Restaurant & Jazz Club\u00a0<\/p>\n

Choose from an early dinner and jazz performance or a night ending in counting down to the ball drop at the Southern food and jazz bar SOUTH Restaurant on Broad Street. You can choose from an \u201cearly\u201d reservation<\/a> at 6 or 6:15 p.m. or go on the later side<\/a> at 9:45 or 10 p.m. Tickets for the earlier side are $150 per person, while the later show is $175 per person. Admission includes a three-course meal and lively jazz performances to ring in the New Year.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Philadelphia Orchestra NYE Celebration at The Kimmel Center<\/p>\n

Settle in for a musical send-off to 2025 with a 7 p.m. orchestra show at The Kimmel Center. The performance will feature music from classical film scores, while guest conductor Anthony Parnther will lead scores from popular movies like \u201cOppenheimer\u201d and \u201cEncanto\u201d. Tickets range<\/a> from $57.12 to $187.04.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Kindred the Family Soul Live at City Winery Philadelphia<\/p>\n

Watch husband-and-wife neo soul music duo Aja Graydon and Fatin Dantzler for a NYE performance at City Winery at 7 or 10:30 p.m. For the fifth year in a row, the performers will be center stage<\/a> for a night of food, wine and music. Each showtime and ticket requires a $25 food and beverage minimum per person. Tickets for the performance start at $78<\/a>, and attendees can come for a pre-show dinner at 5 or 8 p.m., respectively, as well.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Party with SNACKTIME at The Brooklyn Bowl<\/p>\n

Head over to Fishtown for WXPN\u2019s NYE celebration at The Brooklyn Bowl featuring SNACKTIME. The band mixes jazz, rap, punk and R&B to create lively tunes. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the concert starts at 8 p.m. for the 21+ show. Tickets start<\/a> at $52.90.<\/p>\n

NYE 2026 at Topgolf Philadelphia\u00a0<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for a sporty way to begin the New Year, Topgolf\u2019s NYE celebration<\/a> may be perfect for you! The bay reservation<\/a> gives you and up to five other guests unlimited game play and drinks, appetizers, and desserts. The party runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. and is 21 and older.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Burlesque & Blues\u00a0<\/p>\n

Experience a night of burlesque, blues and celebration <\/a>at the Twisted Tail in Philly. Starting at 9 p.m., guests can watch various musical and burlesque performances. Tickets range<\/a> from $39.19 for cover charge and a complimentary champagne toast to $252.61 for the VIP section, which includes a four-course dinner, three-hour open bar, private seating section and table service.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Parties\u00a0<\/p>\n

From open bars to live DJs to countdowns, there are many bars and clubs kicking off the New Year. Here are a few of note.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Joonbug NYE Events<\/p>\n

Choose from all-access bar crawls, five-hour open bars, bar games and more with Joonbug\u2019s 15+ NYE event options. Tickets for each event range in price and offer everything from club vibes to jazz and DJ performances. Participating bars include Wicked Wolf, NOTO Nightclub, Bru Craft & Wurst, Cellar Dog, Frame Philly, Ladder 15, Mr. Ivy, Old City Beer Garden,\u00a0 Revolution House, Sue\u00f1o, Tapster, The Elephant, The Post, The Winston, Tradesman\u2019s and U-Bahn. Check out your options here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

New Year\u2019s Eve Latin Party\/Perreo Bash at Fringe Bar<\/p>\n

Head over to the self-proclaimed biggest Latin NYE party <\/a>at 9 p.m. at The Fringe Bar in Philly. There are two live DJs, two floors to party on, four bars, a patio, and more. Tickets start<\/a> at $39.19.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Y2K New Year\u2019s Eve: \u2018Party Like It\u2019s 2006\u2019 at Strangelove\u2019s<\/p>\n

Enjoy a Y2K-themed NYE event at Strangelove\u2019s Bar in the Gayborhood starting at 9 p.m. Guests are encouraged to wear their best Y2K attire and there will be a DJ all night, with pop-up drag performances in between. Tickets include<\/a> a two-hour open bar from 10 p.m. to midnight, a complimentary champagne toast, and a food buffet. Tickets are $65.87.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Celebration at C\u00e9line\u00a0<\/p>\n

Enjoy a five-hour premium open bar at this upscale cocktail bar starting at 9 p.m. The event will include \u201celevated bites\u201d and curated favorites from a DJ until 2 a.m. Tickets are $135.23<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Festive Fusion Party at National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant<\/p>\n

National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant is keeping the legacy of now-closed Lucha Cartel alive with a multi-vibe party beginning at 8 p.m. In the bar\u2019s downstairs section, there will be a pub menu buffet, ball drops on all TVs and a live DJ playing EDM, hip-hop and party favorites.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Upstairs, the bar will keep the legacy of Lucha Cartel alive with a Mexican menu buffet, the ball drop on a large projector, and Latin music favorites.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Tickets include a complimentary champagne toast, a view of fireworks from the front steps and party favors for the NYE countdown.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Tickets are good for both floors and include a four-hour open bar and buffet from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. (although the party runs until 2 a.m.) Tickets start at $97.88<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Celebration at Patchwork Philly\u00a0<\/p>\n

Dance the night away at Hyatt Centric Center City\u2019s Patchwork NYE party. Your ticket includes a three-hour open bar and food, as well as access to a dance floor. Tickets start at $94.40<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n

DECADES NYE Throwback Party at Craft Hall\u00a0<\/p>\n

Ring in the New Year with a throwback party celebrating all the hits from the \u201890s and 2000s at Craft Hall in Northern Liberties. The indoor event will feature bars with food and drinks for purchase and a DJ to keep the music flowing. Period attire is encouraged but not required. Tickets start at $28.52<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Stratus Lounge NYE Bash<\/p>\n

Bring more NYE good vibes on the rooftop of one of Philly\u2019s most historic buildings in Old City. This event at Stratus Lounge<\/a> has two tiers \u2013 a \u201cgold\u201d admission with access to the lounge and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, and a \u201cplatinum\u201d ticket with a select open bar, light bites and a champagne toast at midnight. The event lasts from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., and features options for bottle service tables and more paid drink options\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE LIVE! At Stateside Live!\u00a0<\/p>\n

Head over to the stadium complex staple in South Philly to enjoy live performances, photo opportunities, a silent disco and bull riding, and food and drinks starting at 7 p.m. A general admission ticket grants you access to parties at all venues \u2013 including Live! Arena, PBR Philly, 1100 Social and Miller Time Beer Hall.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The ticket also includes a premium bar and food package from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. featuring draft beers, premium cocktails, wine and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as a midnight toast. There are also VIP tickets available, and cash bar and food options will be available past midnight. Tickets start at $179.46<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Philly 2026 at The Crystal Tea Room<\/p>\n

Hop around to multiple party rooms, a laser-and-light show, extensive food buffets, and multiple open bars at one of Philly\u2019s biggest NYE celebrations. VIP tickets allow for entry from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., while general admission tickets get you in from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. In addition to open bars and food buffets, there will be dessert and coffee stations, nonalcoholic drink options, a champagne toast, a double balloon drop at midnight and more. General admission tickets start<\/a> at $125.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Reggaeton New Year\u2019s Eve Party in Philadelphia\u00a0<\/p>\n

Party the night away with Reggaetone and Latin tunes, a one-hour open bar, and midnight champagne toast at Izakaya in Fishtown<\/a>.\u00a0 The event will last from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. The open bar runs from 9 to 10 p.m., and non-stop Latin club hits, Reggaeton and party anthems will be playing all night. Tickets start<\/a> at $33.76.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Philadelphia Under the Fireworks Yacht Party at Ben Franklin Yacht\u00a0<\/p>\n

Cruise (literally) into 2026 aboard the Ben Franklin Yacht from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. on NYE. Your ticket includes a premium open bar for the entire cruise, multiple DJs, a view of the midnight fireworks show on the Delaware River, three decks, live dancing and more. Tickets start<\/a> at $164.49.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The Annual \u201cCelebrity Style\u201d New Years Eve Fireworks Gala<\/p>\n

Experience NYE \u201cpenthouse style\u201d at The Pyramid Club \u2013 500 feet above Center City. Enjoy several experiences in the same building, including a cocktail lounge, a main dining room, and a dance floor with DJs. Pick your own adventure for the night. Tickets include a five-hour open bar, buffet stations, desserts, appetizers, a champagne toast at midnight, professional photography, and more. Tickets start at $193.92<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Moshulu\u2019s NYE Boat Bash<\/p>\n

All aboard Philly\u2019s Moshulu Boat for a premier annual event, with everything from an open bar to views of the Delaware waterfront fireworks. A $150 general admission ticket gets you admission from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. and includes a premium top-shelf open bar, jazz, and acoustic performances, DJs, and more. Get your tickets here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Eats<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking to enjoy any of Philly\u2019s restaurants ahead of 2026, you\u2019re in luck. Here are some deals we found.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Dinner at River Twice\u00a0<\/p>\n

Check off a restaurant from the 2025 Michelin Guide Recommended Restaurant list with a trip to River Twice in East Passayunk! Choose from a $150 per person<\/a>, seven-course tasting menu, or for just $25 more, get up close and personal in a seat at the chef\u2019s counter. Reserve a visit<\/a> to experience the restaurant\u2019s unique collection of dishes.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Dinner at Almyra\u00a0<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for plates to share, Almyra will be offering a family-style option for New Year\u2019s Eve. You can arrive early for happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. The last table seating is at 10:30 p.m. The menu includes everything from charred octopus and filet mignon to crispy rice and potato fries. It is $95 per person<\/a>.<\/p>\n

NYE at Aquimero\u00a0<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking to eat and party a bit afterwards, Aquimeor inside of the Ritz Carlton in Center City has got you. A $295 ticket<\/a> gets you a four-course dinner and optional beverage pairing, and entrance into a NYE celebration with an open bar and live music. The dinner portion of the event lasts from 6 to 8 p.m. Guests can also opt for just a celebration ticket \u2013 which includes the open bar, live music, a champagne toast and party favors. This ticket is $175 per guest<\/a> and the event lasts from 8 p.m. to midnight.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Tasting Menu at Little Walter\u2019s Philly<\/p>\n

Enjoy either the \u00e0 la carte menu or a five-course tasting menu at the Polish restaurant in East Kensington to kick off your holiday right. For $75 per person<\/a>,\u00a0 you can enjoy everything from beef shank to wood-grilled black cod. You can make reservations here<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n

NYE Dinner at Forsythia Philly\u00a0<\/p>\n

Enjoy a mouth-watering, four-course dinner menu at the contemporary French restaurant to ring in your New Year. Choose from options like baked scallop and crudo or short rib and potato gnocchi. The dinner is $150 per person<\/a>. The meal wraps up at 10 p.m., and reservations are required.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Dinner at Rope & Anchor Philly\u00a0<\/p>\n

Head over to the hotel inside the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn\u2019s Landing for two different dinner options \u2013 one perfect for family-friendly vibes, and another for more of a late-night feel. The 4 to 6 p.m. option includes a \u201cfestive buffet\u201d and sweet treats, while the 8:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. option features a dinner buffet, open bar, DJ, dancing and a champagne toast. You can make reservations here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

NYE Dinner at Panorama Restaurant & Wine Bar\u00a0<\/p>\n

Enjoy views of the evening\u2019s fireworks and multiple seating options and courses at the Penn View Hotel\u2019s signature restaurant at either of two time slots \u2013 5 to 6 p.m. or 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. The first seating includes a three-course menu for $85 per person, while the later seating is a three-course menu for $115 per person. The later seating includes a toast at midnight, party favors, and access to an afterparty with dancing and a DJ. You can reserve your table here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

New Year\u2019s Eve at Luk Fu! at Live! Casino and Hotel<\/p>\n

Enjoy party favors, a champagne toast, crafted cocktails and dishes for New Year\u2019s Eve at the Live! Casino and Hotel\u2019s Asian fusion restaurant, Luk Fu! You can look up availability and book your table here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

NYE at The Four Seasons\u00a0<\/p>\n

Head over to Jean-Georges Philadelphia for a four-course tasting menu, festive cocktails, and live Cuban jazz 59 stories above Center City on New Year\u2019s Eve. There are seatings available at various times depending on the size of the party. The celebration is $685 per guest<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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