Which New Year's Eve landmark is lowered in Times Square, New York City, at midnight?

The Times Square Ball is lowered in Times Square, New York City, at midnight on New Year's Eve.

The tradition began on December 31, 1907, when a lighted ball descended from a flagpole atop One Times Square. The original ball was made of iron and wood, measured about 5 feet (1.5 meters) across, and was illuminated by 100 light bulbs. It replaced fireworks as the central visual feature of the celebration.

The modern ball is a geodesic sphere covered with Waterford crystal triangles and LED lighting. Since 2009, it has remained on display above Times Square throughout the year, rather than being installed only for the annual event. The ball drop is often confused with the separate New Year's Eve fireworks and performances held elsewhere in New York City.