Everything you need to know about celebrating New Year’s Eve in Times Square

An iconic Times Square New Year's Eve celebration is not only a New York tradition, it's a global phenomenon. Up to 1,000,000 flock to the land of LED screens to witness one of the best NYC events in December. Some would say it's one of the best things to do for New Year's Eve, where you're likely to spot the inevitable surprise engagement, bask under a shower of confetti, and maybe even be featured on live television.

If you don't want to pack into the crowd on the sidewalk, many hotels around the area host New Year’s Eve parties, but expect to pay a pretty penny for those. Here’s what you need to know about this year's Times Square New Year’s Eve.

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Is the New Year’s Ball Drop happening?

Yes, of course!

When is the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration?

Tuesday, December 31, from 6pm to midnight. If you can get a spot right at 6pm, you'll see the ball raise onto its perch, then a giant switch will be flipped to turn on the lights. Here's a minute-by-minute schedule.

Who will be performing and what will I see during the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration?

The lineup is always stacked. This year includes Mark Ambor, Mickey Guyton, Rita Ora, Jonas Brothers, Megan Moroney, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, TLC, Carrie Underwood, Greeicy, De La Ghetto, Kapo, The Sino-American Friendship Association with A Spring Festival Celebration, AGNEW with a dance performance, and Triad Brass featuring Jonathan Arons.

TV personality Jonathan Bennett will host with Jeremy Hassell.

How do I tune in to see the ball drop?

The Times Square Alliance and Countdown Entertainment are streaming a webcast of the New Year’s Eve celebration starting at 6pm. You can also watch the ball drop live at TimesSquareNYC.org and TimesSquareBall.net.

How much does it cost to get into Time Square on New Year’s Eve?

It’s free!

What time does Times Square close on New Year’s Eve?

Typically around 3pm. Traffic is not allowed into the square after that. 

When should I arrive in Times Square for New Year’s Eve?

As early as possible if you want a good view. According to the Times Square Alliance, revelers begin to gather in the afternoon on New Year's Eve, since the entrance to the viewing areas opens on a first-come, first-served basis. Viewing areas open at 3pm.

Is New Year's Eve in Times Square worth it?

The answer is highly subjective. New Year’s Eve in Times Square is for sure a bucket list item for many people, so braving the cold, the crowds and being squished in one space for hours is worth it. But for those who don’t really care about checking this item off a list, it may not be worth it. Time Out's Editor has done it once and says once was enough.

Are there bathrooms nearby?

Using the restroom and keeping yourself hydrated are difficult to accomplish. You may have heard rumors about some people wearing diapers, and that's for a reason. Once you get out of your "pen" it is often hard to impossible to get back in. Plus, there aren't any portable toilets to use, so you're on your own. 

What should I bring—and not bring?

• Wear warm clothes in layers and comfy shoes. Charge your phone and bring a backup battery pack.
• Don't bring backpacks, large bags, large coolers, alcohol, and chairs. Note that all bags will be searched.

History of the Times Square New Year's Eve ball drop

The tradition of celebrating New Year's Eve in Times Square dates back to 1904! But the New Year's ball didn't get in on the fun until 1907. That's when it made its first descent from the flagpole atop One Times Square. The first one was made of iron and wood and adorned with 100 25-watt lightbulbs. It weighed 700 pounds.

Today's ball weighs 11,875 pounds and is covered with 2,688 crystal triangles.