New York City celebrates New Year's Eve with the annual Waterford Crystal Ball ceremony.
The Waterford Crystal Ball is the modern version of the illuminated ball lowered in Times Square at midnight. Waterford Crystal began contributing crystal panels in 2000, and later designs incorporated thousands of panels arranged in geometric patterns. The ball is lit before its descent during the final minute of the year.
The ceremony is staged atop One Times Square, the historic former headquarters of The New York Times. Although the event is often called the Times Square Ball Drop, New York City is the broader city setting and Times Square is the specific location.
The ball is not dropped freely. It is carefully lowered along a pole in a controlled descent, reaching the bottom at midnight. The event also includes musical performances, confetti, and a large crowd, while millions more watch through television and online broadcasts.