What is the name of New York City's famous ball-drop event held in Times Square each New Year's Eve?

New York City’s famous New Year’s Eve ball-drop event is the Times Square Ball Drop.

The tradition began on December 31, 1907, when the first illuminated ball descended from a flagpole atop One Times Square. The event replaced a fireworks display that city officials had prohibited because it created a fire hazard. The original ball was made of iron and wood and was about five feet wide.

The ball has been redesigned several times. Modern versions use Waterford Crystal panels and thousands of LED lights, allowing elaborate color patterns and animations. The descent lasts about one minute and ends at midnight, when the new year officially begins in the Eastern Time Zone.

The celebration is often called simply the Times Square ball drop, but it is distinct from New Year’s Eve events elsewhere in New York. Millions watch the broadcast, while large crowds gather in Times Square despite the long wait and limited access to facilities.