Times Square Confetti Test and New Year's Eve 2026 Preparations

New Year's Eve Ball Drop Preparations

• 💡 The iconic New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square is just two days away, with preparations including a confetti test for the famous ball drop.
• 🚀 The New Year's Eve ball is already in place, with the numbers '2026' visible below it, and has been moved up and down in readiness.
• 🗓️ The ball will drop at midnight on December 31st, and again at 12:04 a.m. on January 1st, sparkling in red, white, and blue.

Special 250th Birthday Celebration

• ✨ The second ball drop on January 1st will honor America's 250th birthday with a special confetti display.
• 🇺🇸 For the first time, the ball will also drop on the 4th of July to commemorate the country's 250th anniversary.

Annual Wishing Wall

• 📝 The annual Wishing Wall has reopened, allowing visitors to write their wishes on paper and attach them.
• 📍 People can visit Broadway Plazas between 45th and 47th Streets from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. to participate.
• 🎊 On New Year's Eve, approximately 3,000 lbs of confetti, including wishes, will fall from the sky.

The 2026 New Year's Eve Ball

• 💎 This year's ball is the largest yet, measuring 12 1/2 ft in diameter and weighing over 12,000 lbs.
• 🌟 The ball is covered in 5,200 crystals and features LED lights.
• ⏳ New York City has been celebrating with a ball drop since 1907.

Today's Sneak Peek

• ⏰ Those interested can get a sneak peek of the preparations by visiting at 11:00 a.m. today to witness the confetti test.
• 💬 Personal wishes for the new year include calling family more and getting more sleep.