Lainey Wilson delivered a powerful dose of country music as part of Nashville’s New Year’s Eve Big Bash, stepping on stage just as the countdown energy began to build. Performing her hit “4x4xU,” she brought a calm confidence that immediately connected with the crowd.

The performance didn’t rely on over-the-top visuals or effects. Instead, its impact came from simplicity. Wilson’s steady vocals, paired with a sharp, well-rehearsed band, created a sound that felt authentic and grounded. The driving rhythm of the song fit perfectly with the celebratory mood, offering fans a moment that was both comfortable and energizing.

More than a typical holiday appearance, the set served as a reminder of what makes Lainey Wilson stand out — a clear sense of identity, consistency in her sound, and a genuine country style that continues to resonate with audiences.

Music City will be ringing in 2026 to the sound of country tunes. New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash is returning this year with a five-hour broadcast headlined by country stars. According to a press release, the NYE special, directed by Sandra Restrepo, will feature “electrifying performances” by Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson and Bailey Zimmerman, “uniting country music fans for one of the nation’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations.”

Before the clock strikes midnight in Music City, here’s how to watch and stream New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash.

When will New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash air?

The show, executive produced by Robert Deaton and Mary Hilliard Harrington in partnership with Music City Inc., the foundation of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp, will air on Wednesday, Dec. 31.

How to watch New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash

Tune into the show live on the CBS Television Network.

How to stream New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash?

Paramount+ Premium plan subscribers will be able to stream New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service and on-demand.

While Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream the special live, they will be able to watch it on-demand on New Year’s Day.

What time will New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash air?

The New Year’s Eve special will air from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET and 10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. ET.

Who is hosting the 2025 New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash?

This year’s bash will be hosted by comedian Bert Kreischer and country music star Hardy.

“You hear people say, ‘I’m honored and privileged to be working with a certain group of people,’’’ but in this case, I am blown away that I’m allowed to work with these people. This lineup is insane,” Kreischer said in a press release. “This event, which I was a very small part of last year, is so much fun. To be working with my buddy HARDY … it feels like I should be paying CBS to do this. I can’t wait. I hope I keep my shirt on, and I promise not to drink until the stroke of midnight, unless you want me to drink earlier.”

Who is performing on New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash?

Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson and Bailey Zimmerman are all headlining the big bash, which will also feature performances by Dierks Bentley, Brooks & Dunn, Rascal Flatts, Riley Green, Marcus King, Megan Moroney, Zach Top, Keith Urban, Gretchen Wilson, Stephen Wilson Jr., Dwight Yoakam, gospel music singer CeCe Winans and the Fisk Jubilee Singers.

Dusty Slay, Entertainment Tonight’s Cassie DiLaura, Sirius XM host Buzz Brainard and UFC champion Kayla Harrison are also set to make guest appearances.

Who is New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash taking place?

The celebration is taking place at Nashville’s Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.

Do you need tickets for New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash?

No. The New Year’s Eve celebration is free and open to the public.

Is there a New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash watch party in Music City?

If you can’t make it to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, there will be an official watch party for individuals 21 and older at Luke Combs‘ Category 10 in Nashville. Grammy Award winner Dwight Yoakam and Marcus King will hit the stage at the party, which will also include special appearances by Cody Alan and Caylee Hammack. Doors for the watch party will open at 6 p.m. Tickets for guaranteed entry as well as VIP seating are available for purchase here.