Which newspaper organized the first large New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square in 1904?

The New York Times organized the first large New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square in 1904.

The newspaper held the event to celebrate the opening of its new headquarters, the Times Building, later renamed One Times Square. On December 31, 1904, fireworks were set off from the building, attracting a large crowd to the newly named Times Square.

The better-known ball-drop tradition began later. The first Times Square Ball descended on December 31, 1907, after fireworks were prohibited because they created safety problems. The New York Times therefore helped establish both the location's association with New Year's Eve and the event that eventually became its signature celebration.

A common mix-up is to date the first Times Square celebration to 1907. That year marks the first ball drop, whereas 1904 marks the newspaper's original celebration and fireworks display.