Airing on CNN beginning at 8 p.m. ET, the live event takes place in Times Square. Viewers can expect Cooper and Cohen to interview celebrity guests, cut away to musical performances from artists like Swedish pop star Robyn, and — if history is any indication — some boozing from the hosts.
The celebration dates back to 2017, when the journalist and TV personality — who also happen to be best friends — first teamed up to host the now-iconic broadcast. In 2023, CNN “banned” alcohol during the event, forcing the duo to take pickle juice shots instead.
After fan backlash, however, the tequila tradition is officially once more, along with Cohen’s signature playful jabs, including quips like, “Yes, the Vanderbilt boy suffers just like you,” in reference to Cooper’s famous family.
How to Watch New Year’s Eve Live With Anderson Cooper & Andy Cohen Online 2026
If you don’t want to miss a moment of the chaos — plus musical performances from Shakira, Patti LaBelle, and Brandi Carlile — here’s how you can watch online for free and start the New Year off on the right note.
➤ $39.99/month
➤ Five-day free trial
➤ Up to 185+ channels
DirecTV is a top choice for live TV streaming, with its competitive channel lineup. CNN is included with its basic plans — including the MyNews package, featuring 10+ news channels — all starting at just $39.99 per month. New subscribers get a five-day free trial.
You can also stream CNN without a traditional cable subscription with Hulu + Live TV. We love Hulu + Live TV because you get a three-day free trial, after which it’s $89.99-per-month. With this, you get access to 95+ live channels, the full Hulu on-demand library, plus ESPN+ and Disney+.
➤ $55.99/month
➤ Five-day free trial
➤ Up to 300+ channels
Fubo is another great option for streaming Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen’s New Year’s Eve special without cable, because CNN is included with every plan. It comes with a seven-day free trial, and starts at $45.99 for the first month, with every month after priced at $55.99.
➤ $45.99/month
➤ Short-term passes available
➤ Up to 46 channels
Sling is the affordable option for live TV streaming, with CNN available in its Sling Blue package. Plans start at $45.99 a month. Watch the ball drop on CNN or switch to view other major news outlets’ New Year’s Eve coverage, like NBC and MSNBC.
How to Stream New Year’s Eve Live With Anderson Cooper & Andy Cohen for Free
Want to watch Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen’s New Year’s Eve special for free? Sign up for a free trial of DirecTV, Fubo, or Hulu + Live TV and stream the celebration without paying.
What Time Does CNN’s Special Start?
The event starts at 8 p.m. ET on CNN.
Pantalones Anejo Tequila
Drink Alongside Anderson & Andy
Cooper and Cohen’s drink of choice is allegedly tequila. If you want to join in on the fun and match them shot for shot, grab our editor’s favorite Pantaleon’s Añejo Tequila at Reserve Bar in time for your countdown.
