There is something about the transition to a brand-new year that feels, well, electric. Whether you are actually out in the freezing cold or, like most of us, tucked under a warm blanket with a glass of something bubbly, the television specials are really what tie the night together. This year, as we prepare to jump into 2026, the broadcast lineups are looking incredibly stacked. It feels like the networks finally realized we want a mix of nostalgia and current “it” stars. Of course, even if you’re staying cozy on the couch, you might still want to keep up with certain traditions to ensure the next twelve months go smoothly—like the long-standing custom of wearing a specific shade of lucky red underwear to invite good fortune.
The Times Square Tradition
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is still the heavyweight champion of the night. Ryan Seacrest is back in Times Square, but he is not alone; Rita Ora is joining him to host the madness. The headline that has everyone buzzing, though, is the legendary Diana Ross. She is set to ring in 2026 with a headlining performance right in the heart of New York.
The lineup becomes even more interesting when looking at the musical guests. If you are following the charts at all, you know Chappell Roan is the name on everyone’s lips. She is set to perform, and it is likely that her segment will dominate social media by morning. The production is also leaning into some heavy nostalgia with 50 Cent, New Kids on the Block, and even 4 Non Blondes. It is a bit of a musical fever dream, isn’t it? For the first time, the show is also doing a live Central Time Zone countdown from Chicago, led by Chance the Rapper. It is about time the Midwest got its own dedicated spotlight on the big stage.
Country Vibes and Comedy
If pop isn’t exactly your speed, CBS is bringing back Nashville’s Big Bash. It is usually a bit more laid back but still high energy. This year’s headliners are Lainey Wilson, Jason Aldean, and Bailey Zimmerman. What’s really caught my eye, though, is the hosting duo. Country star Hardy is teaming up with comedian Bert Kreischer. That is either going to be hilariously entertaining or absolute chaos. Probably a bit of both, knowing Bert. They are even featuring a free watch party at Luke Combs’ new bar, Category 10, which adds a nice “local” feel to the whole production.
The Chaos We Love
Then we have the duo of Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen on CNN. This is their ninth year together, which is honestly wild to think about. They have Shakira performing from Florida and the iconic Robyn in Times Square. People don’t just watch this for the music; they watch to see how long it takes for Anderson to lose it while Andy tries to keep things on the rails. It is the kind of unpredictable live TV that makes the night feel human.
Which one will you be tuning into? Are you sticking with the Times Square tradition or heading to Nashville for the night? Let us know your plans in the comments and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the best highlights after the ball drops!
Sources:
- www.newyearsrockineve.com/
- www.cnnpressroom.blogs.cnn.com/2025/12/15/cnn-to-ring-in-2026-with-anderson-cooper-and-andy-cohen-live-from-times-square/
- www.timessquarenyc.org/nye/nye-live
- www.latenighter.com/news/new-years-eve-specials-how-to-watch-stream/
- www.visitmusiccity.com/newyearseve/details
