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Complete Guide to New Year’s Eve in Times Square (2025)
December 23, 2024, 1:08.12 am ET

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New Year’s Eve in Times Square is one of the most iconic celebrations in the world. Millions tune in, and thousands gather to witness the glittering Ball drop as the clock strikes midnight. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this unforgettable experience.

Where to Watch the Ball Drop

The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball descends from a flagpole atop One Times Square (Broadway at 43rd Street). The best views are along Broadway from 43rd to 50th Street and Seventh Avenue, extending as far north as 59th Street. Screens and sound systems are strategically set up in the Bowtie area (where Broadway and Seventh Avenue cross) to ensure a great experience for everyone.

When to Arrive and What to Expect

The event begins around 6:00 PM, when the Ball is raised to the top of its pole.

Main Event: At 11:59 PM, the Ball starts its 60-second descent to ring in the new year.

Arriving Early: Viewing areas open at 3:00 PM, and access is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Many revelers arrive in the afternoon to secure a spot.

Pro Tip: Enter the viewing areas via designated pedestrian access points at 49th, 52nd, and 56th Streets on 6th and 8th Avenues.

Getting to Times Square

Public transportation is the best way to reach Times Square. Multiple subway lines serve the area, including the 1, 2, 3, 7, A, B, C, D, E, F, M, N, Q, R, W, and S shuttle trains.

Avoid exiting at 42nd Street station due to heavy crowding. Instead, use nearby stations and walk to Times Square.

Subway service disruptions are expected after 10:00 AM, with some stations bypassed entirely, including the 49th Street N/R/W and 50th Street (1) stations.

Extra trains will run on key lines to accommodate the influx of visitors.

Street Closures and Security

Starting at 4:00 AM, 7th Avenue from 42nd to 48th Streets will close to vehicle traffic. Additional closures will extend up to 59th Street throughout the day. Pedestrian crossings will be available at 41st, 44th, 50th, 54th, and 57th Streets, but access becomes increasingly limited as the event fills. Pedestrian access to viewing areas can be found at 49th, 52nd and 56th Streets between 6th and 8th Aves.

Tips for the Best Experience

No Tickets Required: The celebration is free and open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis, but private parties in Times Square businesses require advance reservations.

Bundle Up: Dress warmly, as temperatures drop significantly, and you’ll be outside for hours. [Forecast]

Confetti and Celebration History

More than one ton of confetti is dropped at midnight to welcome the new year. The tradition dates back to 1904, and the Ball has been a centerpiece of the celebration since 1907.

Where to Stay or Dine with a View of the Ball

Several Times Square hotels and businesses offer incredible views of the Ball Drop:

- Renaissance New York
- Tempo by Hilton at TSX Broadway
- Marriott Marquis
- The Knickerbocker
- Bar 54 at the Hyatt Centric
- R Lounge
- Beast and Butterflies at M Social
- The Edition Hotel

Find more NYC Hotels

Entertainment Lineup for 2024

This year’s celebration will feature performances by:

Mark Ambor performing hits like "Belong Together," "Good to Be," and "Our Way."

Mickey Guyton singing John Lennon’s “Imagine” and her own chart-toppers like “House on Fire.”

The event will be hosted by Jonathan Bennett and Jeremy Hassell and streamed live via commercial-free webcast. At the top of each hour, Bennett will be joined by a special guest who will talk about their New Year’s Eve experience and Confetti Wish for the New Year and lead the revelers in an hourly countdown.

New Year’s Eve in Times Square is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re braving the cold in person or watching from home, this iconic celebration promises a night to remember!


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