In New York City's New Year's Eve celebration, what color confetti is traditionally released over Times Square?

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In New York City's New Year's Eve celebration, multicolored confetti is traditionally released over Times Square.

The confetti release is one of the best-known elements of the Times Square celebration, joining the illuminated ball descent, the midnight numerals, and the singing of “Auld Lang Syne.” Pieces of paper fall over the crowd as the clock reaches midnight.

The tradition grew from the celebration’s use of paper decorations and later became a major part of the organized event. Modern confetti may include messages submitted by members of the public, giving the falling paper a personalized element in addition to its visual effect.

Multicolored confetti is different from the glittering “New Year’s Eve ball,” which is a separate object lowered from One Times Square. The celebration’s exact entertainment lineup changes annually, but the confetti shower remains a dependable midnight feature.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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