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- In the US, a popular way to celebrate New Year’s Eve is to watch the ball drop in Times Square.
- The tradition started in 1907, when the ball was made of iron and wood.
- After multiple redesigns, today’s ball weighs 11,875 pounds and features 2,688 crystal panels.
2024 is coming to a close. So, as we reflect on all this year had to offer — the Paris Olympics, “Cowboy Carter,” and “Wicked” may come to mind — it’s time to ring in 2025 with a bit of fun.
Different countries are known for their own unique traditions to celebrate and bring good energy into the new year. In Denmark, for example, people celebrate New Year’s Eve by breaking plates. Meanwhile, in Italy, it’s tradition to wear red underwear. And of course, in the US, it’s common to watch the Times Square ball drop.
The ball drop has been a New York City tradition for over a century, symbolizing new beginnings. But the ball itself has changed drastically since its original debut in 1907; then, it was crafted from iron and wood, measured 5 feet in diameter, and weighed 700 pounds, according to Times Square’s website.
In contrast, today’s ball is made with crystal, measures 12 feet in diameter, weighs 11,875 pounds, and is lit by more than 30,000 LEDs.
Whether you’re one of the brave people who have traveled to New York City to watch the ball drop live, or you’re planning to watch it from the comfort of your couch, here’s a look back at how the tradition started and the Times Square ball’s 117-year history.
