Philadelphia, December 26, 2025
Philadelphia is preparing for a vibrant New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebration, with a variety of events that showcase community resilience and engagement. From fireworks displays along the Delaware River to a concert headlined by LL Cool J on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the city’s festivities promise excitement for both locals and visitors. The iconic Mummers Parade will also take place, celebrating its 125th anniversary. This celebration reflects the collaborative spirit of local organizers and the community’s enthusiasm for public life.
Philadelphia Rings in 2026: Exciting New Year’s Events
Celebrating Community Engagement and Resilience
Philadelphia is poised to celebrate New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with a lineup of events that promises to captivate both locals and visitors. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, this celebration highlights the power of community engagement and individual initiative. The city’s diverse events reflect a collective spirit, emphasizing how the collaboration of local organizers and businesses can successfully bring people together, even amidst challenges.
The low bureaucracy involved in Philadelphia’s event planning allows for innovation and creativity, empowering local leaders to curate experiences that resonate with the community. As citizens rally around these efforts, it’s clear that maintaining a vibrant social calendar is a key part of fostering civic pride and encouraging participation in public life.
New Year’s Eve Events
Free Fireworks Shows on the Waterfront
On December 31, 2025, Philadelphia will kick off the New Year’s Eve festivities with two free fireworks displays along the Delaware River waterfront at 6 p.m. and midnight. The Visit PA New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront are accessible from various picturesque locations like Race Street Pier, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Pier 68, and Washington Avenue Pier.
New Year’s Eve Concert and Fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway
The centerpiece of the city’s celebration unfolds on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, starting at 6 p.m. This free concert will be headlined by hip-hop icon LL Cool J, featuring notable acts such as DJ Jazzy Jeff, Adam Blackstone, Dorothy, and Technician The DJ. Following the concert, attendees will be treated to a spectacular fireworks display at midnight over the Philadelphia Art Museum.
New Year’s Eve on the Pier
For those seeking an immersive celebration, Cherry Street Pier will host live music and dancing from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., offering front-row views of the midnight fireworks. Tickets for this event are available online, with prices varying depending on the purchase date.
New Year’s Eve Parties on Ice
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest will feature New Year’s Eve Parties on Ice, where attendees can enjoy skating, live entertainment, and ideal vantage points for viewing the fireworks. There are two skating sessions available: from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Ticket prices will vary based on purchase date.
Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Activities
Families can take part in a variety of activities at Cherry Street Pier from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. This engaging environment will feature hands-on crafts and a special balloon drop leading up to the 6 p.m. fireworks show. As with other events, tickets can be purchased online at varying prices depending on when they are bought.
New Year’s Day Event
Mummers Parade
Ringing in the New Year wouldn’t be complete without the iconic Mummers Parade on January 1, 2026. Celebrating its 125th anniversary, this beloved event will see over 10,000 participants in colorful costumes marching from City Hall to Washington Avenue. Special viewing areas will be established at 17th and Market streets, as well as along Broad Street at Samson, Pine, and Carpenter streets.
Additional Information
For the most updated information on these exciting events, including ticket details and specific timings, residents and visitors are encouraged to check official city resources and event websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do the fireworks shows start on New Year’s Eve?
The fireworks shows along the Delaware River waterfront are scheduled for 6 p.m. and midnight on December 31, 2025. The concert and fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway begin at 8 p.m., with fireworks at midnight.
Where can I watch the fireworks displays?
The 6 p.m. and midnight fireworks along the Delaware River are visible from locations such as Race Street Pier, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Pier 68, and Washington Avenue Pier. The midnight fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway can be viewed from various spots along the Parkway.
Are there any family-friendly events on New Year’s Eve?
Yes, Cherry Street Pier offers family-friendly activities from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., including crafts and a balloon drop, followed by the 6 p.m. fireworks show.
How can I purchase tickets for the New Year’s Eve events?
Tickets for events like New Year’s Eve on the Pier, New Year’s Eve Parties on Ice, and family activities at Cherry Street Pier can be purchased online. Prices may vary based on the purchase date.
What is the Mummers Parade?
The Mummers Parade is an annual event held on New Year’s Day, featuring over 10,000 participants in elaborate costumes marching from City Hall to Washington Avenue. It celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2026.
Event Details
| Event | Date | Time | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fireworks on the Waterfront | December 31, 2025 | 6 p.m. and midnight | Delaware River waterfront | Free fireworks displays visible from various locations along the waterfront. |
| New Year’s Eve Concert and Fireworks | December 31, 2025 | Concert at 8 p.m.; fireworks at midnight | Benjamin Franklin Parkway | Free concert headlined by LL Cool J, followed by fireworks over the Philadelphia Art Museum. |
| New Year’s Eve on the Pier | December 31, 2025 | 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. | Cherry Street Pier | Live music, dancing, and front-row views of the midnight fireworks. Tickets required. |
| New Year’s Eve Parties on Ice | December 31, 2025 | 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. | Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest | Ice skating, live entertainment, and views of the fireworks. Tickets required. |
| Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve at Cherry Street Pier | December 31, 2025 | 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. | Cherry Street Pier | Hands-on activities, crafts, and a balloon drop, followed by the 6 p.m. fireworks. Tickets required. |
| Mummers Parade | January 1, 2026 | 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. | Broad Street, from City Hall to Washington Avenue | Annual parade featuring over 10,000 participants in colorful costumes. Free to attend. |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
