The History of the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop
The tradition of gathering in Times Square on New Year’s Eve began in 1904, but the now-iconic ball drop didn’t debut until 1907. That original ball—built from iron and wood and lit by 100 incandescent bulbs—was lowered from a flagpole at midnight to mark the arrival of the new year. It measured 5 feet in diameter and weighed 700 pounds, instantly captivating the crowd and setting a precedent for celebration.
The ball drop has been a near-annual event ever since, with only two exceptions: 1942 and 1943, during World War II. With blackout restrictions in place, New York dimmed its lights to avoid drawing attention from potential air attacks. Still, people gathered in Times Square, honoring the moment with a quiet, candlelit observance instead of the usual fanfare.
Since then, the Times Square ball has undergone several transformations, both in form and technology. From iron and wood to aluminum, and now to crystal and LED, each iteration has reflected its time. Today’s version—designed by Waterford Crystal and powered by Philips Lighting—is a breathtaking geodesic sphere that weighs nearly 12,000 pounds. It features over 2,600 triangular crystal panels and is illuminated by more than 32,000 programmable LED lights, creating a brilliant, choreographed display seen by millions worldwide.
