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NEW YORK – 2026 is just hours away.\u00a0<\/p>\n
For the first time in Times Square history, New York City will ring in the new year with two ball drops instead of one.\u00a0<\/p>\n
There is also the possibility of snow, which could add to the wintry celebration.<\/p>\n
What we know:<\/p>\n
Times Square will host two ball drops for the first time as the city rings in 2026.<\/p>\n
The traditional ball will drop at the stroke of midnight on Jan. 1, 2026. A second celebration will follow just minutes later, marking a historic first for the iconic New Year\u2019s Eve event.<\/p>\n
The additional ball drop honors the nation\u2019s upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and is organized by the Times Square Alliance in partnership with America250, a nonpartisan commission established by Congress in 2016.<\/p>\n
Timeline:<\/p>\n
When to watch the ball drop <\/p>\n
New Year\u2019s Eve festivities will begin at 6 p.m. on Dec. 31, 2025, and continue through midnight.<\/p>\n
According to America250, the second ball drop is expected to begin at approximately 12:04 a.m. EST.<\/p>\n
Where to watch the ball drop <\/p>\n
The New Year\u2019s Eve celebration takes place in Times Square.<\/p>\n
How to watch the ball drop in Times Square <\/p>\n
For those willing to brave the crowds and cold temperatures, revelers will be admitted to viewing areas on a first-come, first-served basis.<\/p>\n
Access points will be located at:<\/p>\n
45th Street49th Street52nd Street56th Street <\/p>\n
Entrances will be along 6th and 8th avenues, and viewing areas will officially open at 3 p.m.<\/p>\n
The best views are along Broadway from 43rd to 50th streets and along Seventh Avenue as far north as 59th Street.<\/p>\n
What\u2019s the best way to get into Times Square? <\/p>\n
Public transportation is the best option.<\/p>\n
The following subway lines serve the Times Square area:
1, 2, 3, 7, A, B, C, D, E, F, M, N, Q, R, W and the S shuttle.<\/p>\n
Street closures <\/p>\n
A full list of street closures related to the New Year\u2019s Eve celebration is available on Times Square\u2019s official website.<\/p>\n
West 34th Street on the SouthWest 59th Street on the NorthSixth Avenue on the EastEighth Avenue on the West <\/p>\n
All areas within that space will be closed off to traffic.<\/p>\n
What you can\u2019t bring to Times Square <\/p>\n
If you plan on attending the celebration, here\u2019s a full list of what you can and cannot bring into the contained area:<\/p>\n
BackpacksLarge bagsLarge coolersPicnic blanketsChairsAlcoholDrugsLaser pensUmbrellasLarge items that can obstruct spectators\u2019 views What happens during the second ball drop? <\/p>\n
Unlike the traditional crystal ball, the second drop will feature a red, white, and blue design.<\/p>\n
The celebration will include 2,000 pounds of red, white, and blue confetti, followed by a pyrotechnic finale set to Ray Charles\u2019 rendition of “America the Beautiful,” according to a press release.<\/p>\n
How to watch the ball drop at home <\/p>\n
Those unable or unwilling to attend in person can watch the celebration live on Times Square\u2019s website.<\/p>\n
The Source: This report is based on information from the Times Square Alliance.<\/p>\n