What's happened
A star-studded New Year’s Eve telecast will feature Cher performing a medley of hits, including her iconic Christmas song, alongside 39 artists across multiple locations. The event, hosted by Ryan Seacrest and others, aims to celebrate the start of 2026 with music and festivities from New York, Chicago, and Las Vegas.
What's behind the headline?
The announcement underscores the enduring appeal of New Year’s Eve celebrations as a major entertainment event. Cher’s participation, especially her performance of her iconic Christmas song, reinforces her status as a cultural icon whose influence spans decades. The inclusion of a diverse lineup of artists across multiple locations reflects a strategic effort to appeal to broad audiences and maintain the event’s relevance in a competitive entertainment landscape. The event’s timing and extensive media coverage will likely boost viewership and reinforce the tradition of global festivities centered around Times Square. This celebration also demonstrates the continued importance of live, communal experiences in an increasingly digital world, emphasizing the cultural significance of collective joy and entertainment at year’s end.
What the papers say
The Independent provides detailed coverage of the event lineup and Cher’s participation, emphasizing her long-standing influence and the event’s cultural significance. AP News offers a concise overview, highlighting the key performers and broadcast details. The coverage from The Independent’s Hillel Italie adds context about Cher’s musical legacy and her recent performances, illustrating her ongoing relevance. While all sources agree on the event’s core details, The Independent’s in-depth profile of Cher’s career and her connection to the holiday song offers a richer understanding of her role in this celebration. The AP articles focus more on logistical aspects, such as broadcast times and participating locations, providing a straightforward summary. Overall, the coverage collectively underscores the event’s importance as a major cultural and entertainment milestone for New Year’s celebrations.
How we got here
The event is part of the annual New Year’s Eve celebration, which has been centered in Times Square since 1904. Cher’s performance of her classic Christmas song, first released in 1963, highlights her long-standing influence in music. The telecast includes performances from numerous artists and is broadcast live on ABC, with repeats on Hulu. The event continues a tradition of large-scale public gatherings to mark the New Year, with origins dating back over a century.
Go deeper
Common question
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Who Is Performing at This Year's New Year’s Eve Concert?
As the clock counts down to 2026, millions tune in to celebrate with spectacular performances from top artists. Wondering who will be lighting up the stage this year? From legendary icons like Cher to a lineup of 39 artists across major cities, this year's New Year’s Eve celebration promises an unforgettable night. Keep reading to discover the star performers, the biggest celebration spots, and what to expect from this year's festivities.
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What Are the Biggest New Year’s Celebrations Planned for 2026?
As 2026 approaches, people around the world are gearing up for spectacular New Year’s celebrations. From iconic concerts to unique cultural traditions, the start of the new year is a time of joy, music, and cultural expression. Curious about what’s happening globally? Here’s a look at the biggest events, performances, and traditions to ring in 2026.
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