The world-famous Times Square ball drop is almost here to welcome the New Year of 2025. Every year, over a million people gather in Times Square to witness the iconic event, while billions watch from the comfort of their homes.
At 11:59 p.m., the glittering crystal ball begins its 60-second descent, marking the momentous occasion. This brief yet significant event is made possible by the efforts of many.
So how does the Times Square ball get its sparkle?
Waterford Crystal, a glass-making brand established in Ireland in 1783, has been hands-on with the Times Square ball since 2000.
Times Square has witnessed the evolution of seven distinct ball designs since 1907.
From the inaugural wooden ball to dazzling crystals introducing the new millennium, every iteration represents a fusion of innovation and tradition, encapsulating the spirit of each passing era in a shimmering spectacle that captivates the world.
In 2022, ahead of the New Year celebration, Waterford Crystal master artisan Tom Brennan gave Fox News Digital some keen insight on what goes into the annual installation at the top of One Times Square, where artisans and architects piece together the glittering globe.
At the time, he said the phrase "It takes a village" was at the center of it all.
The Times Square ball is 12 feet in diameter and weighs nearly 12,000 pounds.
It is comprised of 2,688 Waterford Crystal triangles bolted to 672 LED modules, according to the official Times Square website.
A whopping 32,256 LEDs give the ball its vibrant colors, per the source.
Each of the LED modules contains 48 LEDs. There are 12 red, 12 blue, 12 green, and 12 white for a total of 8,064 of each color, the website notes.
The innovative lighting system boasted an expansive palette of over 16 million vivid hues and billions of dynamic patterns, crafting the mesmerizing kaleidoscope effect synonymous with the ball, according to the Times Square website.
The ball is never taken down or covered up after New Year’s Eve – which Brennan previously told Fox News Digital proves the "strength, beauty and charm" of the Waterford crystals.
"[Waterford] is almost 240 years old and here we are today – global, iconic, relevant," he said.
"But most importantly, we’re part of people’s lives and that’s very special."
Though the crystal ball can be seen at any time of the year, visitors must visit the city on New Year's Eve to witness the moment for themselves.
As the clock nears midnight on New Year's Eve, anticipation builds.
The ball, with its radiant brilliance, will slowly descend amid a chorus of cheers, marking the conclusion of 2024 and the beginning of 2025.
The New Year's Eve ball drop celebration symbolizes unity and hope, lighting up the skyline and captivating audiences far beyond the holiday celebrations.
Source: Fox news
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
