The Times Square Ball Drop was canceled as a public in-person event in 2020 and held again with a limited crowd in 2021.
For the transition from 2020 to 2021, New York City replaced the usual large public gathering in Times Square with a virtual and broadcast-focused celebration because of COVID-19 safety restrictions. The ball still descended, but spectators were not allowed to gather normally in the square.
For the transition from 2021 to 2022, the event returned with a reduced audience and additional public-health measures. The limited attendance allowed the city to preserve the televised tradition while reducing crowd density. The ball drop's exact status is therefore tied to the year being welcomed, which can make descriptions confusing.
The ceremony itself dates to 1907 and has survived wartime interruptions, weather, and many changes in technology. Its continuity is one reason the temporary public-access restrictions drew worldwide attention. Television coverage and official livestreams allowed audiences to watch even when ordinary attendance was unavailable.