New York City hosts the New Year’s Eve celebration known for the Waterford Crystal Times Square Ball.
The ball descends at One Times Square during the final minute of December 31. Waterford Crystal began contributing crystal panels to the ball in 2000, and the partnership helped establish the modern object’s distinctive faceted appearance. The ball is illuminated by LED technology and is designed to be visible from the surrounding square.
Times Square’s celebration began in 1907, when a ball was lowered to mark the start of 1908. The original purpose was partly promotional: The New York Times used the event to publicize its new headquarters. The tradition continued even after the newspaper moved elsewhere.
The name “Times Square Ball” refers to the object and ceremony, while the wider event includes concerts, confetti, the midnight countdown, and massive crowds. The ball is not dropped vertically; it is slowly lowered down a pole.