Chicago Sets New Year’s Eve Curfew for Minors and Expands Safety Measures Downtown

Chicago officials have announced a series of public safety steps for New Year’s Eve, including a curfew for minors in downtown areas, as the city prepares for major celebrations along the riverfront.

Mayor Brandon Johnson said the curfew is aimed at preventing v**lent incidents in busy tourist and commercial zones. Under the rule, anyone between the ages of 12 and 17 who is downtown after 10:00 p.m. must be accompanied by an adult. City officials say enforcement will focus on safety and crowd management rather than punishment.

The curfew comes as Chicago hosts its first local edition of Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, with festivities centered along the riverfront near Wacker Drive and Franklin Street. The free, ticketless event will feature live performances, fireworks at midnight, and a nationally broadcast program hosted by Chicago native Chance the Rapper. Entry begins at 5:00 p.m., with bag size limits and security screenings in place.

To reduce impaired driving, the Disparti Law Group is also offering 1,000 free Uber ride vouchers for New Year’s Eve. The coupons, available on a first-come, first-served basis, can be used between 10:00 p.m. on December 31 and 3:00 a.m. on January 1, with a maximum value of $20 per ride. The initiative is intended to encourage residents to plan a safe ride home after celebrations.

Public transportation will play a key role as well. The Chicago Transit Authority will offer free rides from 10:00 p.m. through the early morning hours, and officials are urging attendees to use trains and buses due to extensive street and bridge closures downtown.

City leaders say the combination of a youth curfew, free transit options, and added security is designed to ensure that New Year’s Eve remains a celebration rather than a night of emergencies, while still allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the events safely.