Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Drop

In real life  Every year on December 31 · Ball raised 6:00 PM · drop 11:59 PM

Next: Thursday, December 31, 2026

The crystal ball is raised at 6 PM, and after a night of performances it drops at 11:59 to count down to midnight.

New Year's Eve in Times Square started on 31 December 1904, when New York Times owner Adolph Ochs put on fireworks to open One Times Square. The first ball drop followed in 1907, to welcome 1908, and it has happened every year since except 1942 and 1943, during wartime blackouts.

The current 'Constellation Ball', introduced for 2025–26, is 12.5 feet across and weighs more than 12,300 pounds. It is covered in more than 5,000 Waterford Crystal panels. The event is organized by the Times Square Alliance and Countdown Entertainment.

What to expect

• The ball raised at 6:00 PM
• Performances during the evening
• The ball starting its drop at 11:59 PM and reaching the bottom at midnight
• At least 3,000 pounds of confetti released at midnight

Tips for going

• Expect NYPD security checkpoints. Backpacks and alcohol are not allowed
• Arrive early, since viewing areas fill hours before midnight
• Dress for a long, cold wait outdoors

Questions people ask

Is it free?

Yes. Watching from the street is free.

What time does the ball drop?

It starts at 11:59 PM and lands at midnight. It's raised at 6 PM.

Can I bring a bag?

Backpacks and alcohol are prohibited at the NYPD checkpoints.

About New York

Midtown Manhattan is the New York skyline up close: the Empire State and Chrysler buildings, the lights of Times Square, and yellow cabs in the grid.

Getting there: The Empire State Building is at 34th Street by Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R and W trains). Times Square–42nd Street is served by the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W and S.

More about New York and its 3D version →

Also in New York

Details checked against en.wikipedia.org. Organizers change plans, so confirm there before you go.