What is the name of the large illuminated structure dropped at midnight in New York’s Times Square?

The large illuminated structure dropped at midnight in New York’s Times Square is the Times Square Ball.

The ball descends a flagpole atop One Times Square during the final minute of December 31. Its descent ends precisely at midnight, marking the start of January 1 and creating the central visual moment of the city’s New Year’s Eve celebration.

The original 1907 ball was relatively small and used electric bulbs. Successive versions became more durable, brighter, and more elaborate. The current design uses Waterford crystal panels and LED lighting, allowing millions of color combinations and animated displays.

The name can cause confusion because some people call the event itself “the ball drop.” The object is specifically the Times Square Ball, while the ceremony is commonly described as the Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop.