With 2025 on the horizon, it’s almost time for one of the world’s most iconic rituals to ring in a new year, The Times Square Ball Drop! Every year over 50,000 people gather to NYC’s most iconic square to exchange hugs, New Year’s kisses, and celebratory photos in the confetti-filled hub. While we know how polarizing the idea of spending NYE in Times Square is, we’re here to answer some of your questions about it if you’re looking to do it! Here’s all you need to know about this year’s celebration:
Will Times Square be open for New Year’s Eve?
Yes, Times Square will be open for New Year’s Eve this year! Over 50,000 people from across the globe will gather in the square to ring in 2025! Over 1 ton of confetti will be dropped as the clock hits 12, confetti that you can write your New Year’s wish on and have included in the confetti dump.
When does the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration start?
This year’s Times Square celebration begins at 6 pm for the Ball Raising. Vehicular traffic gets cut off at 3 pm to the area. The NYE celebration is a first-come first-served event, and is not ticketed, meaning you can begin entering the area in the afternoon whenever you wish.
Who will be performing in Times Square this year?
This year’s performers have yet to be announced, but they are always incredible. Last year’s included Paul Ank, Flo Rida, Megan Thee Stallion, Tyla, Sabrina Carpenter, Maria Becerra, Jelly Roll, and Yng Lvca.
How can I tune into watch the New Year’s Eve celebration?
This year’s NYE Ball Drop will be shown across major television networks, with exclusive shows and performances leading up to midnight. Other ways to watch the events include visiting the TimesSquareNYC.org livestream for six-and-a-half-hour commercial-free webcast or downloading the VNYE app to enjoy an immersive virtual experience set in the metaverse of Times Square.
What is the best way to get to Times Square?
The best way to get to Times Square is via public transportation. The 1, 2, 3, 7, A, B, C, D, E, F, M, N, Q, R, W, and S shuttle trains service the Times Square area, so check your map to see which works best for you. Historically, the 42nd St subway station is often crowded and is recommended to avoid if possible and travel into Times Square on foot (see below).
Where is the best viewing spot of the Ball Drop?
Access to Times Square on the evening of December 31st will be from 6th Avenue or 8th Avenue only. No one will be allowed to cross Broadway/7th Avenue once the streets have been closed (at 3 pm). If your destination is east of Broadway/7th Avenue, you must enter at 6th Avenue and the nearest cross street to your destination. If your destination is west of Broadway/7th Avenue, you must enter at 8th Avenue and the cross street of your destination.
Below are the access points for the viewing areas in Times Square:
South of 41st Street:
- 38th Street: 6th and 8th Avenues
North of 43rd Street:
- 49th from 6th & 8th Aves
- 52nd from 6th & 8th Aves
- 56th from 6th & 8th Aves
Is there food and drinks around Times Square?
While there is no food and drink vendors in Times Square specifically, there are restaurants around the area offering deals. According to Times Square officials, these are the best food spots with a view of the NYE Ball.
- Renaissance New York
- Marriott Marquis
- The Knickerbocker
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Company
- Olive Garden
- R Lounge
- Beast and Butterflies at the M Social
- Bar 54 at the Hyatt Centric