How the Times Square Ball transformed over 117 years of New Year’s Eve magic
The Times Square Ball Drop has marked New Year’s Eve in New York since 1907. The tradition began under Adrian or Adolph Ochs, then-owner of The New York Times, as a way to celebrate the arrival of a new year in a dazzling public spectacle. Over the decades, the ball itself has transformed dramatically in design, size and technology.
The first ball, dropped in 1907, was crafted from iron and wood, weighed around 700 pounds and featured 100 lightbulbs. For years, it was lowered by hand—a practice that continued until the 1950s. In 1920, a lighter version made entirely of wrought iron replaced it, weighing about 400 pounds.
By 1955, the ball had evolved again, this time with an aluminium frame that cut its weight to just 150 pounds. Decades later, in 1981, the design shifted to reflect New York’s spirit: a 'Big Apple' ball symbolised the city’s recovery from financial troubles, remaining in use until 1988. The 1990s brought further innovation. In 1995, the ball gained an aluminium skin adorned with glitter, rhinestones, computer controls and strobe lights. Five years later, a new millennium ball debuted, showcasing 504 Waterford Crystal triangles and halogen bulbs. The 2000s saw even grander changes. A permanent 'Big Ball' arrived in 2009—12 feet wide, nearly six tons in weight, and covered in 2,688 Waterford Crystal triangles lit by 32,256 LEDs. Then, in 2025, the Constellation Ball was unveiled: 12.5 feet in diameter, weighing 12,350 pounds, and featuring 5,280 handcrafted crystals, LED lights, a signature sound and interactive elements.
From a simple iron-and-wood sphere to a high-tech crystal spectacle, the Times Square Ball has grown alongside the city it represents. Each redesign reflects advances in technology and New York’s enduring tradition of ringing in the new year with brilliance and flair.
