The Ultimate Guide to the Best New Year's Eve Shows to Watch

Get ready to celebrate the year's end with a bang! As the clock ticks closer to midnight, there's no better way to ring in the new year than with the best New Year's Eve shows to watch. From Nashville's Big Bash to CNN's live coverage, to the iconic Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest, and even Miley's New Year's Eve Party, this article has got you covered for an unforgettable night. But that's not all – we'll also delve into beloved TV episodes like Mad Men's "The Doorway" and Modern Family's "New Year's Eve," along with the spectacular Sex and the City movie. So, gather your loved ones and get ready for an exciting journey through some of the most memorable New Year celebrations in America. Let's dive in!

New Year's Eve Live: Nashville's Big Bash

Get ready for an incredible five-hour treat as we bring you a live broadcast from Music City! Hosted by Jimmie Allen, Elle King, and Rachel Smith, this event is all about celebrating the arrival of 2023 with some amazing country music. With a star-studded lineup of 50 performances, including Flo-Rida, Zac Brown Band, and Luke Bryan, this is a party that will have you dancing into the new year.

Don't miss the live broadcast on CBS or stream it on Paramount starting at 8PM ET on Dec. 31.

CNN's New Year's Eve Live

Join Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper as they host CNN's New Year's Eve Live. From the iconic Times Square in New York City to cities around the world, they'll bring you all the excitement of the ball drop and more.

Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET on CNN and ends at 1 a.m. ET.

This show is known for its memorable moments. In 2021, Andy Cohen didn't hold back when he criticized former NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio, calling him the "crappiest" mayor in NYC history. He humorously pointed out that the only thing both Democrats and Republicans could agree on was how terrible de Blasio had been as mayor.

In November 2022, Chris Licht, the new head of CNN, confirmed that Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen would return as hosts. However, on-air personnel will no longer be allowed to drink alcohol during the program. This rule doesn't apply to Cooper and Cohen, who jokingly declared that they will "party harder than we have partied before" during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live.

If last year's show is any indication, CNN's New Year's Eve Live is a must-watch.

Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest

Ryan Seacrest, the veteran presenter, is back to host Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve. The party starts at 8 p.m. ET and promises to be an unforgettable night.

Joining Seacrest will be YouTuber Liza Koshy and singer Jessie James Decker.

The show will also feature segments from Tony-winner Billy Porter, who will celebrate from New Orleans, and singer Ciara, who will celebrate from Disneyland, Florida.

Ciara will also perform at Disneyland, alongside Aly & AJ, Bailey Zimmerman, Ben Platt, Fitz and The Tantrums, Halle Bailey, Lauren Spencer-Smith, Maddie & Tae, Shaggy, and TXT.

D-Nice will co-host from Los Angeles, and there will be star-studded performances from Armani White, Betty Who, Dove Cameron, Finneas, Nicky Youre, and Wiz Khalifa.

Don't miss Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest, airing on ABC, ABC.com, and Hulu.

Miley's New Year's Eve Party

NBC//Getty Images

Prepare for an incredible night as Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton take the stage together in Miami! Following the success of last year's party, Miley is back for a second year, and this time she's joined by her godmother, the newly appointed Rock & Roll Hall of Fame star. With musical performances from Miley, Sia, Rae Sremmurd, and more, this show is sure to keep us entertained well into the new year.

Tune in live on NBC or livestream on Peacock starting at 10:30PM ET on Dec. 31.

Mad Men // “The Doorway” (2013)

Experience the gripping series created by Matthew Weiner that delves into the advertising industry of 1960s America. Starring Jon Hamm as the charismatic creative director Don Draper, the show takes you on a journey through a creative and tumultuous period in history. "The Doorway," a two-part episode that kicks off the sixth season, is a must-watch.

Set between late December 1967 and early morning on January 1, 1968, this episode sees Don leading a new campaign and taking a trip to Hawaii, while Roger Sterling receives upsetting news about a family member. Meanwhile, Don's ex-wife Betty makes a trip to Greenwich Village, leading to unexpected results. Literature enthusiasts will appreciate the references to Dante's Inferno, and sci-fi fans should keep an eye out for a nod to Robert A. Heinlein's classic novel, Stranger in a Strange Land. These are just a few examples of the many books featured throughout the series.

Sex and the City: The Movie

The legendary HBO series, Sex and the City, spawned two films, and the first movie delivers an emotional New Year's Eve celebration. Carrie, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, travels downtown to support her friend Miranda, played by Cynthia Nixon, during her divorce. Carrie's iconic beanie, fur coat, and fuzzy pajamas set the ultimate loungewear goals, and the scene is accompanied by the classic tune "Auld Lang Syne." It's hard not to shed a tear witnessing their compassionate friendship. Sometimes, the best way to ring in the New Year is by embracing the company of loved ones.

Stream it now on HBO Max

Modern Family - “New Year’s Eve”

The beauty of Modern Family is its ability to cater to every audience member, and the New Year's Eve special is no exception. Whether you long for a romantic NYE plan, an unexpected adventure, or a cozy night in, this heartfelt episode serves as a reminder that the most important thing is having each other.

As the countdown begins and the anticipation peaks, make sure you have your popcorn ready and your loved ones by your side for the ultimate New Year's Eve show to watch. Whether you're in the mood for a star-studded bash with Ryan Seacrest or a heartfelt and hilarious celebration with the Modern Family gang, these top picks will have you laughing, crying, and dancing your way into the new year. So grab a seat and get ready for a night of unforgettable entertainment that will leave you ringing in the new year with a smile.