New York Times Square (AP image)
New York rang in 2026 with tradition, spectacle and a brand-new symbol of hope as the iconic Times Square ball drop lit up the city and screens around the world on New Year’s Eve.For the first time, celebrations featured the Constellation Ball, the largest New Year’s Eve ball in the event’s history. Measuring 12.5 feet in diameter and weighing over 12,000 pounds, the new ball marked a fresh chapter in a tradition that dates back to 1907, CNN reported. The Constellation Ball is the ninth ball to be used in Times Square and features 5,280 Waterford crystal panels in three circular sizes, along with thousands of LED lights. Unlike earlier designs that used triangular crystals, the new ball uses circular shapes, which organisers say symbolise interconnectedness, continuity and optimism. “The ball is meant to represent interconnectedness, wholeness, and the cyclical nature of tradition, celebrating the eternal relationship between the past, present, and future,” said Michael Phillips, president of Jamestown, the company that owns and operates One Times Square.The ball was raised into position in November, ahead of weeks of testing before the main event.As the clock struck 11.59 pm, the illuminated ball began its slow descent down the pole above One Times Square. Crowds packed into the crossroads of Midtown Manhattan and millions watching live on television joined the traditional 60-second countdown. At midnight, cheers erupted, confetti filled the air and couples embraced as 2026 officially began.The Times Square ball drop was first introduced more than a century ago after city officials banned fireworks from New Year celebrations. Newspaper publisher Adolph Ochs commissioned metalworker Jacob Starr, an immigrant from Ukraine, to create a visual spectacle that would draw crowds without explosives. Inspired by 19th-century nautical time balls used to help sailors set their clocks, the first Times Square ball was a simple iron-and-wood structure fitted with light bulbs. Over the decades, it evolved into a global symbol of New Year celebrations.Despite cold and blustery weather, thousands of people from around the world gathered in Times Square to secure a viewing spot.“Everywhere is freedom,” said Soyeon Kim, a visitor from South Korea. “It’s so nice, the decorations, the colors, the lights.”The event also required extensive security planning. New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the New Year’s Eve celebration was the city’s biggest annual event, with heightened police deployment, the New York Times reported.Street closures began early Wednesday morning, gradually turning much of Midtown Manhattan into a pedestrian-only zone as revelers packed the area to bid farewell to 2025.This year’s celebration also carried political significance for the city. Eric Adams pressed the button to begin the countdown, marking the end of his tenure as mayor. Later, Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City’s new mayor. Go to Source
