Times Square’s New Year’s Eve celebration is one of the world’s most iconic events, gathering millions in person and more than a billion viewers around the globe. From historic traditions to unforgettable live performances, the night has evolved into a cultural phenomenon.
Here are some fun facts and musical moments that have truly defined it.
The most-watched new year’s celebration in the world
Times Square’s New Year’s Eve attracts more than a billion viewers annually, making it the world’s most-watched countdown. Millions gather in Manhattan to welcome the new year with music, confetti, and the famous ball drop, a tradition that brings global attention every December 31st.
The First Times Square Ball Drop in 1907
The first ball drop took place in 1907 after fireworks were banned in the area. Made of iron and wood, the original ball weighed 700 pounds and featured 100 bulbs. This moment laid the foundation for one of America’s most enduring holiday traditions.
How much the times square ball weighs today
Today’s Times Square Ball weighs nearly 12,000 pounds and features more than 2,600 Waterford crystals illuminated by 32,000 LED lights. Its display changes throughout the night, creating a spectacular show broadcast across the world.
Confetti wishes: 2,000 pounds of hope
Nearly 2,000 pounds of confetti are released at midnight, and many pieces carry handwritten wishes submitted by visitors. These “confetti wishes” represent hopes for the year ahead, adding a symbolic and emotional touch to the celebration.
Bon Jovi brought classic rock to NYE 2007
Bon Jovi delivered an unforgettable performance during the 2007 New Year’s Eve celebration, adding powerful rock anthems to the night’s festivities. Their appearance brought timeless, crowd-pleasing energy that resonated across generations.
Cyndi Lauper brought color and nostalgia in 2011
Cyndi Lauper’s 2011 Times Square performance showcased her vibrant style and timeless hits. Her charismatic presence added warmth and nostalgia to the celebration, delighting fans on-site and viewers around the world.
Green Day ignited the crowd in 2011
Green Day brought their signature punk-rock intensity to New Year’s Eve 2011 with a high-energy Times Square performance. Their set captivated the crowd and millions watching at home, marking one of the most memorable rock moments of the celebration.
Taylor Swift’s NYE took over in 2014
Taylor Swift headlined the 2014 celebration with a high-energy performance just before releasing her album 1989. Her appearance drew massive audiences and became one of the most memorable NYE performances of the decade.
Mariah Carey’s unforgettable 2016 moment
Mariah Carey’s 2016 performance became one of the most talked-about moments in NYE history after technical issues disrupted her sound. The moment went viral, but her return the next year reinforced her status as a pop icon.
Christina Aguilera performed through the rain in 2019
Christina Aguilera delivered an impressive live performance during a rainy 2019 New Year’s Eve celebration. Despite the challenging weather, she showcased powerful vocals and confidence, earning widespread praise.
BTS Took over times square in 2020
BTS commanded international attention during their 2020 Times Square performance. Their choreography, charisma, and massive global fanbase transformed the countdown into a worldwide event.
Jennifer Lopez’s spectacular show in 2021
Jennifer Lopez delivered a standout New Year’s Eve performance in 2021, wearing a dramatic metallic ensemble that instantly went viral. With limited in-person crowds due to the pandemic, her show brought emotion and star power to viewers watching from home.
The Midnight Kiss Tradition
The midnight kiss tradition dates back centuries and is believed to bring good luck and strengthen romantic bonds. Couples from around the world gather in Times Square to share this symbolic moment beneath falling confetti.
How New York handles security for the event
Times Square’s New Year’s Eve requires one of the largest security operations of the year. Thousands of officers, street closures, and checkpoints ensure safety for the millions attending. Planning begins months in advance.
Cleanup: 3,000 pounds of trash removed overnight
By dawn, New York City sanitation crews clear nearly 3,000 pounds of confetti, streamers, and party debris. The overnight operation restores Times Square to normal by morning, showcasing the city’s impressive coordination and efficiency.