How Long Have They Been Doing the Ball Drop in New York?
A Brief History of the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Drop
The iconic image of a giant, glittering ball descending down a flagpole in Times Square to herald the new year is a beloved tradition that has been captivating audiences for over a century. But how long has this tradition been in place? Let's take a look back at the history of the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Drop.
The Early Years
The tradition of celebrating New Year's Eve in Times Square dates back to the late 19th century when the area was known as Longacre Square. At that time, the neighborhood was a bustling commercial hub filled with theaters, restaurants, and shops.
In 1904, Adolph Ochs, the owner of The New York Times, purchased a plot of land in Longacre Square and began construction of a new headquarters for the newspaper. The building was completed in 1907 and was immediately dubbed "The Times Tower."
To celebrate the opening of the new building, Ochs decided to hold a special New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square. The centerpiece of the event was a giant, illuminated clock that was installed on the facade of the Times Tower.
The First Ball Drop
The first New Year's Eve ball drop took place on December 31, 1907. The ball was made of wood and lit by hundreds of incandescent light bulbs. It was lowered down a flagpole at midnight to mark the start of the new year.
The ball drop was an immediate hit with the crowd, and it quickly became an annual tradition. Over the years, the ball has been redesigned several times, and it has grown in size and complexity.
The Modern Era
Today, the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Drop is one of the most watched events in the world. Millions of people gather in Times Square to witness the ball drop in person, and billions more tune in to watch it on television.
The ball is now made of Waterford crystal and is adorned with thousands of LED lights. It is lowered down a flagpole at a rate of one inch per second, and it takes exactly 60 seconds for it to reach the bottom.
The ball drop is just one part of the New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square. There are also live music performances, confetti drops, and other festivities.
FAQs
How to watch the ball drop in Times Square?
You can watch the ball drop in Times Square in person by securing a viewing area permit. However, these permits are highly sought after and can be difficult to obtain. If you can't get a permit, you can watch the ball drop on television or online.
How to celebrate New Year's Eve in Times Square without a permit?
If you don't have a permit to watch the ball drop in Times Square, there are still plenty of other ways to celebrate New Year's Eve in the area. You can watch the ball drop on a big screen in one of the many bars or restaurants in Times Square, or you can simply enjoy the festive atmosphere of the crowd.
How to get to Times Square on New Year's Eve?
It is best to take public transportation to Times Square on New Year's Eve. The subway and bus lines will be running on a special schedule, and there will be increased security measures in place.
What to wear to the ball drop in Times Square?
It is important to dress warmly for the ball drop in Times Square, as it can be quite cold in New York City in December. You should also wear comfortable shoes, as you will be standing for a long time.
How to stay safe in Times Square on New Year's Eve?
There are a number of things you can do to stay safe in Times Square on New Year's Eve. First, be aware of your surroundings and be mindful of your belongings. Second, follow the instructions of law enforcement officials. Third, drink alcohol in moderation and avoid getting into arguments with others.
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