ABC7 Chicago's 'The Dance' 2026: Cheryl Scott & Terrell Brown Ring in the New Year!

Chicago takes center stage as Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve hosts its first-ever event in the city.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:55am

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An abstract, high-contrast close-up photograph of shattered glass shards reflecting a bright, glittering light, conveying the celebratory mood of a New Year's Eve event.The electrifying energy of Chicago's New Year's Eve celebration will shine brighter than ever as ABC7 and Dick Clark's Rockin' Eve join forces to ring in 2026.Chicago Today

ABC7 Chicago is bringing back its beloved New Year's Eve tradition, 'The Dance', with anchors Cheryl Scott and Terrell Brown set to dazzle audiences once again. This year, the event holds historic significance as Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest is hosting its first-ever Chicago celebration, starting at 7 p.m. on December 31st, 2026.

Why it matters

The Dance has become a must-watch event for Chicagoans, symbolizing the city's vibrant spirit and community. As the tradition evolves to include the national spotlight of Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve, it raises questions about whether such events can maintain their local charm while gaining new meaning on a larger stage.

The details

The Dance, which has been a staple of ABC7 Chicago's New Year's Eve coverage for the past eight years, will feature electrifying performances and local flair. Viewers can catch the full presentation in the video player on the ABC7 Chicago website or stream the event 24/7 by clicking the provided link.

  • The Dance will take place on New Year's Eve, December 31st, 2026.
  • Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest will host its first-ever Chicago event, starting at 7 p.m. on December 31st, 2026.

The players

Cheryl Scott

An ABC7 Chicago anchor who has co-hosted The Dance for the past eight years.

Terrell Brown

An ABC7 Chicago anchor who will co-host The Dance alongside Cheryl Scott.

Ryan Seacrest

The host of Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve, which is hosting its first-ever Chicago event in 2026.

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What’s next

Viewers can tune in to ABC7 Chicago on New Year's Eve to watch the full presentation of The Dance and the historic Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve event in Chicago.

The takeaway

The Dance has become a beloved tradition in Chicago, and its inclusion in the national Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve celebration highlights the city's vibrant spirit and community. As the event evolves, it raises questions about whether such traditions can maintain their local charm while gaining new meaning on a larger stage.