In New York City's Times Square celebration, confetti is traditionally dropped at midnight besides the ball.
The confetti shower forms part of the visual climax of the celebration as the illuminated ball completes its descent. Workers release pieces from buildings around Times Square, allowing the material to spread over the crowd gathered for the countdown. The tradition complements the ball drop but is a separate element of the ceremony.
Times Square's first ball drop took place in 1907, and the event developed into one of the world's most recognizable New Year's Eve broadcasts. Confetti messages have also been used in some celebrations, allowing people to write wishes or greetings that become part of the midnight shower.
The amount of confetti can be substantial, and cleanup crews begin work soon after the crowds leave. The confetti is designed for public celebration rather than as a replacement for the ball, whose descent remains the event's central timekeeping symbol.