The annual New Year's Eve ball drop in New York City takes place in Times Square.
The tradition began in 1907, when a seven-foot illuminated ball descended from the flagpole atop One Times Square. Newspaper publisher Adolph Ochs organized the celebration to attract attention to the newly completed headquarters of The New York Times. The first ball was made of iron and wood and lit with 100 light bulbs.
The ball has been redesigned several times. Modern versions use thousands of crystal panels and LED lights, allowing elaborate color patterns. The descent begins shortly before midnight on December 31 and ends when the ball reaches the roof at the start of January 1.
A common mix-up is confusing the ball drop with New York City's fireworks displays. Fireworks may be used elsewhere in the city, but the globally televised countdown centers on Times Square. The event is also associated with confetti, musical performances, and a large crowd gathered in Midtown Manhattan.