More Than a Century of Counting Down Over Times Square
Every December 31, the eyes of the world turn to a few blocks of Midtown Manhattan. At 11:59 p.m., a glowing crystal sphere begins to descend, and for sixty seconds a crowd from every corner of the planet counts down together. Behind that minute there is a tradition that began more than a hundred years ago.
In this guide we tell you how the ball drop was born and how it has changed, and then everything practical to welcome 2027: what time to arrive, how to get in, what is not allowed, alternatives with fireworks and tips from our guides.
Last updated: October 21, 2026.
How the Tradition Was Born
In 1904, The New York Times owner Adolph Ochs celebrated the opening of the newspaper’s new headquarters at One Times Square with a midnight fireworks show. It was the first New Year’s Eve celebration in the square, which had just been renamed after the newspaper.
When fireworks were banned, Ochs came up with an alternative: on December 31, 1907, a 5-foot ball made of wood and iron, weighing 700 pounds and lit by 100 bulbs, descended from the building’s flagpole to welcome 1908. It was inspired by the “time balls” that ships used to set their clocks.
A Century of Balls
The ball has changed several times: iron in 1920, aluminum in 1955, a “Big Apple” version in the 1980s and Waterford crystal from 1999. It only stopped during World War II, in 1942 and 1943, because of wartime blackout rules: the crowd observed a minute of silence and listened to chimes from sound trucks.
In 2008 a 12-foot LED ball arrived, with 2,688 crystal panels, designed to stay atop the building all year. And for the end of 2025 the Constellation Ball debuted: 12.5 feet in diameter, more than 12,300 pounds and 5,280 Waterford crystals. The night of December 31, 2026 will be its second New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve 2026 in Times Square: What to Expect
The celebration is free and first come, first served, with no tickets. As a reference, in 2025 the viewing areas opened at 3:00 p.m., the ball was raised at 6:00 p.m. and began its descent at 11:59 p.m. During the evening there are live performances, and at midnight more than a ton of confetti falls over the crowd. The 2026 schedule and lineup will be confirmed closer to the date.
How to Get In and What Is Not Allowed
Pedestrians can only enter from Sixth or Eighth Avenue, through police checkpoints on cross streets in the 40s and 50s, and the viewing areas fill block by block. Backpacks, large bags, umbrellas, chairs, coolers and alcohol are not allowed, and all bags are searched. Once you leave your spot, you cannot come back in.
There are no portable restrooms or food vendors in the viewing areas, so plan ahead: eat, use the restroom before entering and limit how much you drink during the afternoon.
What to Wear
You will spend many hours standing outdoors, often at temperatures near or below freezing. Dress in wind- and water-resistant layers, with a hat, gloves, warm socks and waterproof shoes. Hand warmers make a difference.
Alternatives: Fireworks in the Parks
If you prefer to avoid the crowds of Times Square, there are other ways to celebrate. In Central Park, fireworks light up the sky at midnight as runners begin the traditional Midnight Run, and you can watch from many points in the park. In Brooklyn, Grand Army Plaza at Prospect Park celebrates with live music from 10:00 p.m. and fireworks at midnight. Harbor cruises are another option, with views of the fireworks around the Statue of Liberty.
Our Guides’ Tips
Arrive early, but be realistic: you will spend many hours without restrooms or food. If you are traveling with children or older relatives, the fireworks in the parks are a more comfortable option. Use the subway, since many streets around Times Square close from the morning. And do not buy “all-access passes” from unofficial sellers: the public celebration is free and does not require tickets.
Before and After the Countdown
New Year’s week is a great time to see the city lit up for the holidays. Our New York City Lights Night Tour shows you the city at night, and the Christmas Lights Tour in New York City: Dyker Heights takes you to the most famous decorated houses in New York. Both are guided in Spanish and run in heated vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Times Square ball drop free?
Yes. The public celebration is free and first come, first served. No tickets are required.
What time should I arrive in Times Square?
As a reference, in 2025 the viewing areas opened at 3:00 p.m. and filled up during the afternoon. The earlier you arrive, the closer you will be.
Are there restrooms in Times Square on New Year’s Eve?
No. There are no portable restrooms or food vendors in the viewing areas.
What is not allowed?
Backpacks, large bags, umbrellas, chairs, coolers and alcohol, among other items.
When did the first ball drop?
On December 31, 1907, to welcome 1908.
Where else can I see fireworks on New Year’s Eve?
In Central Park, during the Midnight Run, and at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn, at midnight.
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Sources
Sources: Wikipedia, Times Square Ball; ABC7 New York, New Year’s Eve in Times Square: everything to know (2025); CBS New York, Where to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in NYC. Schedules and rules may change for 2026.
Real’s Tours NYC is not affiliated with the Times Square Alliance, the New York Road Runners or any organization mentioned in this article. Schedules, rules and events may change, so please confirm current information with the official organizers before you go.
