13
The Times Square ball drop tradition began in 1907 to celebrate the New Year. The first ball was made of iron and wood, measuring 5 feet in diameter and weighing 700 pounds. Over the years, the ball has evolved significantly in design and materials, with the current version, the Constellation Ball, featuring 5,280 Waterford crystals. This event has become iconic, symbolizing New Year's Eve celebrations not just in New York City but worldwide.
The design of the Times Square ball has changed dramatically since its inception. The original ball was made of iron and wood, while modern iterations incorporate advanced materials like crystal and LED lights. The current Constellation Ball, introduced in 2026, is the largest yet, featuring 5,280 Waterford crystals. Each year, the ball's design reflects contemporary aesthetics and technological advancements, enhancing its visual impact during the countdown.
Beyond Times Square, various U.S. cities have unique New Year's Eve traditions. For example, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, a giant chile pepper is dropped, while Plymouth, Wisconsin, features a cheese wedge drop. Key West celebrates with a conch shell drop, and Mobile, Alabama, has a MoonPie drop. These quirky celebrations nod to the Times Square tradition, showcasing local culture and creativity in ringing in the New Year.
For the 2026 New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square, Jonathan Bennett and Jeremy Hassell are returning as hosts. Bennett, known for his role in 'Mean Girls,' has hosted previous events and brings a lively energy to the festivities. Jeremy Hassell, a rising star in entertainment, complements Bennett, making the livestream engaging for viewers watching from home.
The Constellation Ball, unveiled for the 2026 New Year’s Eve celebration, is made of 5,280 circular Waterford crystals, which come in three different sizes. This design not only enhances its visual appeal but also symbolizes the connection between the event and the stars. The use of high-quality materials reflects the importance of the ball drop as a global symbol of celebration and hope.
Cities across the U.S. celebrate New Year's Eve with diverse traditions. For instance, in New York City, the iconic ball drop is a major event, while in other places, unique items are dropped to mark the occasion. Cities like Key West with its conch shell drop or New Orleans with its fleur-de-lis drop showcase local customs, emphasizing community spirit and creativity in welcoming the New Year.
COVID-19 significantly impacted New Year's Eve celebrations, particularly in 2020 and 2021. Many large gatherings were canceled or severely restricted to prevent virus spread. In Times Square, attendance was limited, and safety protocols were implemented. As restrictions eased, celebrations have gradually returned to normal, but some cities continue to adapt their events to ensure public safety while maintaining festive traditions.
Viewers can stream the Times Square ball drop online through various platforms, including major networks like ABC, CNN, and CBS. These channels often provide free live streams, allowing people without cable to enjoy the countdown from home. Social media platforms may also offer live coverage, making it accessible to a broader audience, ensuring that everyone can partake in the celebration.
The tradition of dropping objects on New Year's Eve dates back to the early 20th century, with the Times Square ball drop as a prominent example. This practice symbolizes the passage of time and the transition into a new year. It reflects a communal celebration, where people gather to witness the countdown and share in the collective joy of new beginnings, inspiring similar traditions across various cultures.
Times Square's New Year's Eve celebration is one of the most famous globally, attracting millions of viewers and participants. Compared to other international celebrations, like Sydney's fireworks or London's Big Ben chimes, Times Square emphasizes a large-scale, communal countdown with a focus on entertainment and celebrity hosts. While each city has its unique flair, the Times Square ball drop remains a symbol of hope and renewal that resonates worldwide.
