The NYC ball drop in Times Square is a iconic New Year's Eve tradition, drawing millions virtually each year as the crystal ball descends at midnight to welcome 2026. On January 1, 2026, viewers tuned in via major broadcasts and free streams despite chilly weather around 32°F. This event, rooted since 1907, featured a special post-midnight America250 celebration with patriotic confetti and pyro.

TV Broadcasts

Major networks aired live coverage starting around 8 p.m. ET on December 31.

  • ABC : "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026" on Channel 7 or local affiliates, offering performances and the full countdown.
  • CNN and CBS : Provided additional live streams from Times Square, with CBS New York hosting a dedicated YouTube feed.

Free Streaming Options

No cable needed—multiple platforms broadcast the event for free.

  • Official Times Square livestream on YouTube, Facebook, TimesSquareNYC.org, or TimesSquareBall.net, hosted by Jonathan Bennett and Jeremy Hassell.
  • ABC News Live stream for extended coverage.
  • YouTube channels like CBS New York for real-time ball drop views.

In-Person Viewing Tips

If attending, areas opened at 3 p.m. along Broadway (43rd-50th St) and Seventh Ave, with the ball raised by 6 p.m.

  • Best spots: Access via 45th, 49th, 52nd, or 56th St on 6th/8th Aves.
  • No re-entry after leaving; use text alerts (NEWYEARSEVE to 692692) for updates.

Special 2026 Highlights

A unique second ceremony at 12:04 a.m. featured the ball relit in red-white- blue, 2,000 lbs of confetti, and Ray Charles' "America the Beautiful" pyro finale for America's 250th prep.

TL;DR : Catch replays or highlights on ABC, YouTube, or official Times Square sites—live streams remain available post-event. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.