The History of the New Year's Eve Ball Drop

The history of the New Year's Eve ball drop

Since 1907, New Yorkers have marked the New Year with the ceremonial dropping of a huge ball in Times Square. Now, a brand-new ball, covered with more than 5,000 handcrafted Waterford Crystal discs, will help ring in 2026.

Times Square to feature patriotic crystal ball

After the crystal ball drops on New Year's Eve in New York City, it will rise again, sparkling in red, white and blue to usher in 2026 and kick off months of celebrations for the nation's upcoming 250th birthday.

New Year's Eve Ball 2026: Celebrating America's 250th anniversary

MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- The countdown to 2026 is officially underway. Crews are putting the finishing touches on the iconic New Year’s Eve Ball atop One Times Square, preparing to light up the skyline for one of the biggest nights. PIX11’s Cory McGinnis got an up‑close look at the 2026 ball and the sparkle that’s [...]

Times Square ball will drop twice as 2026 begins. Here's why.

The Times Square ball is set to drop twice at the New Year’s Eve celebration. Here's why.