The traditional object lowered at midnight in New York City's Times Square is a ball.
The Times Square Ball is lowered from One Times Square during the final minute of December 31, reaching the bottom at midnight. The ceremony began in 1907 and developed into one of the world's most recognizable New Year's Eve countdowns.
Its design has changed repeatedly. The original 1907 ball was made from iron and wood and was illuminated by light bulbs. Later versions used aluminum, crystal, and computer-controlled lighting. The current ball is a geodesic sphere covered with Waterford crystal panels and LED lighting.
The term “ball drop” refers to the object's descent, not a ball being thrown or released into the crowd. The event is also distinct from fireworks displays held elsewhere in New York City. Millions of viewers watch the ceremony in person, on television, or through online broadcasts.