Organizers in New York City are conducting final checks to ensure the smooth execution of the Times Square Ball Drop, including a practice run for the "centerpiece" of the event on Dec. 30. USA TODAY noted that a confetti airworthiness test simulating the release of 3,000 pounds of paper occurred on Dec. 29, while the actual sphere descent rehearsal was scheduled for 11:45 a.m. the following day.
Festivities have taken place at the location for 122 years, "ever since the owners of One Times Square began in 1904 to conduct rooftop celebrations to greet the New Year," the venue's website states. USA TODAY reported that the Dec. 31 program begins at 6 p.m. ET featuring artists like Diana Ross, Robyn, Xavi, Tones and I, and B.o.B, culminating in the midnight drop of the sphere and wish-filled confetti.
Weighing 12,350 pounds, the current Constellation Ball is the largest yet, containing nearly double the crystals of previous models, per USA TODAY. To mark the US semiquincentennial, America250 announced a "surprise second post-midnight moment", where the object will rise above illuminated "2026" numerals around 12:04 a.m. ET.
While networks like ABC, CBS, and CNN will air the celebrations, USA TODAY indicated that the official website offers a stream starting at 6 p.m. ET. The site encourages audiences to "Enjoy commercial-free, webcast coverage of the festivities leading up to the Ball Drop at midnight, including backstage access, behind-the-scenes stories and interviews with performers and other celebrities," and a YouTube stream with American Sign Language interpretation and open captions will also be available.
