North Texas Rings in 2026 with Expanded Lone Star NYE Celebration

As the calendar turns to 2026, North Texas is set to light up the night with a celebration that promises fireworks, live music, dancing, and food trucks that will keep crowds entertained until the early hours. The event, known as Lone Star NYE, will take place in the heart of Fort Worth’s Sundance Square, drawing thousands of revelers who will experience a street party that has grown each year. Attendees can anticipate a blend of music, fireworks, and culinary delights from a variety of food trucks, all set against the backdrop of downtown Fort Worth’s historic streets. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with the energy of the crowd amplified by the festive décor and the anticipation of the midnight spectacle.

The night will also feature a variety of local vendors offering craft beverages and specialty foods, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Extended Hours and Festive Atmosphere

Organizers have announced that the celebration will run from 5 p.m. until 2 a.m., giving attendees a full nine hours of entertainment that will feature live music, dancing, and an array of food trucks. The extended schedule is part of the effort to make the event larger and better each year, a goal echoed by Sundance Square Music Director Gregory Newman, who said, “Every year the goal is to make it bigger and better.” The early start allows guests to gather before the official countdown, while the late finish lets them linger in the festive atmosphere after the fireworks. The nine‑hour window also accommodates a diverse crowd, from families to young professionals, ensuring that everyone can find a time that fits their celebration plans.

Guests arriving early will find designated gathering spots and refreshments, setting the tone for an energetic evening.

Growing Attendance and Community Spirit

Last year’s event drew more than 40,000 people, a figure that organizers hope to surpass again as the celebration expands. The growing attendance reflects the popularity of the street party, which has become a staple of the region’s New Year’s Eve festivities. Gregory Newman added, “Just like our Christmas tree somehow manages to get taller every single year, this New Year’s celebration is having more bands on the program than we’ve had in past years.” The increase in performers and extended hours is designed to accommodate the larger crowd, ensuring that the event remains inclusive and accessible to all who wish to celebrate. By expanding the program, organizers aim to provide a memorable experience that showcases the vibrant culture of North Texas.

The increase in performers also reflects the organizers’ commitment to showcasing diverse musical styles that resonate with the region’s cultural mosaic.

Musical Lineup and Diverse Genres

The music lineup is a highlight of the evening, featuring a mix of local and regional talent that will keep the energy high from dusk to dawn. Performers slated for the night include Quimikoz del Son, Big City Outlaws, Fusion Latina, Tonya Boyd Cannon, and DJ Danny West. In addition, the NBC 5 broadcast will showcase performances by Old 97’s and Fastball, adding a national flavor to the festivities. The diverse selection of acts ensures that attendees will hear a variety of genres, from indie rock to Latin rhythms, creating a vibrant soundscape that complements the visual spectacle of the fireworks. The lineup also reflects the growing ambition of the event, with each artist bringing a unique style that resonates with the community’s eclectic tastes.

The variety of genres, from indie rock to Latin rhythms, ensures that every attendee finds something that speaks to their musical taste.

Midnight Fireworks and Spectacular Display

At midnight, a dazzling fireworks display will launch from the Westbrook building, illuminating the Dallas skyline and drawing crowds to the plaza for the best viewing experience. Gregory Newman emphasized the spectacle, saying, “You really have to be here to believe it. The energy in the air is incredible.” The fireworks are a centerpiece of the celebration, symbolizing the collective excitement as the new year begins. The timing of the launch aligns with the official countdown, ensuring that the visual display coincides with the moment when the clock strikes twelve. The event’s design also includes ample seating and open spaces, allowing attendees to comfortably gather and watch the show while enjoying the surrounding festivities.

The fireworks display is synchronized with the countdown, creating a moment of shared awe that unites the crowd in celebration.

NBC 5 Broadcast and Behind‑the‑Scenes Footage

For those who cannot attend in person, NBC 5’s Lone Star NYE broadcast will air at 11 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31, providing a live feed of the festivities. The program will feature the Reunion Tower fireworks and a drone show that will sweep across the Dallas skyline, alongside the party in Sundance Square. Viewers can enjoy the music, dancing, and the fireworks from the comfort of their homes. The broadcast also highlights the diverse lineup of performers, including Old 97’s and Fastball, allowing viewers to experience the live energy of the event without leaving their living rooms. By offering a televised version, NBC 5 ensures that the celebration reaches a wider audience, extending the festive spirit beyond the physical gathering.

The broadcast also includes behind‑the‑scenes footage, giving viewers an inside look at the preparation and excitement that build up to the main event.

Key Takeaways

• The 2026 Lone Star NYE will feature live music, fireworks, food trucks, and a nine‑hour celebration.
• Attendance is expected to exceed 40,000, with a growing lineup of local and national performers.
• NBC 5 will broadcast the event, showcasing the fireworks and music for viewers across the region.

Closing

With a nine‑hour schedule, a lineup that spans local favorites to national acts, and a fireworks show that will light up the Dallas skyline, the 2026 Lone Star NYE promises an unforgettable night for North Texas residents. Organizers aim to continue the tradition of growth, inviting thousands to celebrate together in a safe, festive environment. The event’s design emphasizes accessibility, with ample seating, open spaces, and a clear view of the fireworks from the plaza. As Gregory Newman reminds us, the energy in the air is incredible, and the spirit of the celebration is set to carry the region into a bright new year. Whether attendees gather on the streets of Sundance Square or tune in from home, the festivities will showcase the vibrant culture and community spirit that define North Texas.

The event’s success is a testament to the community’s enthusiasm for shared celebrations and the city’s commitment to fostering vibrant public spaces.