Which New Year's Eve celebration in New York City is famous for releasing confetti over Times Square at midnight?

Times Square New Year's Eve is the New York City celebration famous for releasing confetti over Times Square at midnight.

Confetti is released across the packed square as the Times Square Ball reaches the end of its descent. The paper shower adds a second visual climax to the illuminated countdown and helps create the distinctive images broadcast around the world each year.

The tradition developed from the broader Times Square celebration that began with the ball drop in 1907. Modern confetti often carries messages submitted by people and organizations, allowing wishes, dedications, and celebrations to become part of the event. Crews must later clean the square and surrounding streets after the crowd departs.

This celebration is sometimes confused with New York City's separate fireworks events, including displays held over the harbor or at other venues. The defining midnight features in Times Square are the ball descent, the countdown, and the confetti release.