Philadelphia is ringing in 2026 in historic style with its first-ever outdoor New Year’s Eve concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Headlined by Rock & Rock Hall of Famer and two-time Grammy® Award-winning Hip-Hop icon LL COOL J, the free celebration promises music, fireworks, and unforgettable energy.
With special guests— the legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff, Adam Blackstone, Dorothy, and Technician The DJ—Philly is set to light up the Parkway and welcome the new year in a truly epic way.
🔥 LL COOL J brings iconic energy
Fans can expect LL COOL J to deliver a high-energy, career-spanning performance, celebrating decades of this and his lasting impact on Hip-Hop. From his platinum albums like Radio and Mama Said Knock You Out to his latest 2024 release, THE FORCE (Frequencies of Creative Energy), LL continues to set the standard for live entertainment.
Supporting acts include:
- DJ Jazzy Jeff – Philadelphia’s own Grammy, American Music Award & NAACP Image Award winner
- Adam Blackstone – Emmy-winning music director and Grammy-winning writer
- Dorothy– Hard rock powerhouse with a commanding stage presence
- Technician The DJ– Spinning high-energy beats throughout the night
🍾 Celebrate NYE on the Parkway
“Philadelphia is thrilled to welcome everyone to our vibrant city as we celebrate New Year’s Eve and kick off the 250th anniversary of our nation’s indolence. This free concert and fireworks showcase the incredible spirit of our community and the cultural legacy that Philadelphia embodies,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker.
“Philly, don’t call it a comeback. We’ve got unfinished business. Shout out to the Mayor for the invitation! Meet me on the Oval this New Year’s Eve as we bring in 2025—live,” said LL COOL J.
Indeed, this is a concert Philly has been waiting for since July 4th. Originally set to headline the Wawa Welcome America concert, the rapper pulled out to stand in solidarity with striking union workers.
And now, Mayor Parker is ensuring Philadelphians can enjoy such an anticipated concert in a big way!
🎤 LL COOL J New Year’s Eve concert details:
- Gates Open: 6 p.m.
- Concert Begins: 8 p.m.
- Fireworks: Midnight
- Location: Benjamin Franklin Parkway
- Cost: FREE and open to the public
- Producer: ESM Productions of Philadelphia
This landmark event is the perfect way for Philadelphians to celebrate the New Year.
Enjoy legendary performances, and experience the city’s first-ever outdoor Parkway NYE concert and fireworks display.
Don’t miss it! LL COOL J is ready to bring the energy, and Philly is ready to welcome 2026 in style.