New Year’s Eve in Times Square is an iconic spectacle, with thousands gathering to witness the ball drop. But you don’t need to be in the chilly crowds of Manhattan to experience this magical countdown. Thanks to modern technology, watching the ball drop from the comfort of your home is easier than ever. Whether you prefer traditional television broadcasts or online streaming, here’s your guide on where to watch the ball drop and ring in the New Year in style.
Catch the Ball Drop Live on TV
Several major networks broadcast the New Year’s Eve ball drop, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the celebration.
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve on ABC
A New Year’s Eve tradition for many, “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” on ABC is a go-to for ball drop viewing. Ryan Seacrest marks his 20th year hosting, joined by co-hosts Rita Ora, Jeannie Mai, and Rob Gronkowski. This year’s headliner is country music superstar Carrie Underwood, promising a medley of hits leading up to midnight. The star-studded lineup also includes performances from Blake Shelton, Alanis Morissette, Tinashe, Cody Johnson, TLC, Thomas Rhett, and Kesha. Tune in to ABC starting at 8 p.m. ET, or stream it the next day on Hulu if you miss the live broadcast.
New Year’s Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen on CNN
For a different vibe, CNN’s “New Year’s Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen” offers a fun and engaging broadcast. Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen are back for their eighth year, bringing their signature chemistry and commentary to the festivities. Starting at 8 p.m. ET on CNN, this special will feature musical performances by big names like 50 Cent, Sting, Meghan Trainor, and Shania Twain. Later in the night, at 12:30 a.m. ET, Sara Sidner and Cari Champion will take over from Austin, Texas, to count down the Central Time Zone’s arrival of 2025. CNN’s broadcast is available live on CNN, Max for subscribers, and CNN.com and mobile apps for pay TV subscribers, offering multiple ways to watch.
New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash on CBS
Country music fans can celebrate with “New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash” on CBS. This five-hour special kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET and features country music headliners Kane Brown and Jelly Roll, among other stars. If you prefer streaming, Paramount+ offers live and on-demand access to the Nashville bash.
Stream the Times Square Ball Drop Online
If you prefer to watch online, several options are available to stream the ball drop live.
Times Square New Year’s Eve 2024 Live Webcast
For a commercial-free experience focused solely on the Times Square celebration, the official “Times Square New Year’s Eve 2024 Live Webcast” is an excellent choice. Hosted by “Mean Girls” star Jonathan Bennett and Jeremy Hassell, this webcast starts earlier, at 6 p.m. ET, and covers hours of events leading up to the ball drop at 11:59 p.m. ET. Musical performances by artists like Mark Ambor and Mickey Guyton are also part of the lineup. This free livestream is available on the official Times Square website, making it easily accessible to anyone, anywhere.
NBC New York’s Times Square Live Stream
NBC New York provides a free livestream of the Times Square festivities on their streaming channel. Their coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET and goes until 1 a.m. ET, ensuring you catch all the key moments. You can access this free stream on the NBC New York website, offering another convenient way to watch the ball drop online.
Fun Facts to Enhance Your Ball Drop Viewing
Impress your New Year’s Eve guests with these interesting facts about the Times Square ball drop tradition, sourced from the official Times Square website:
- The ball is a massive 12 feet in diameter and weighs a hefty 11,875 pounds.
- It’s adorned with over 2,600 crystal triangles, each pattern symbolizing a different virtue such as love, wisdom, and happiness.
- The first ball drop occurred in 1907, marking the arrival of 1908, though Times Square celebrations began a few years prior.
- The original ball was constructed from iron, wood, and lightbulbs.
- The ball has been lowered every year since its inception, except in 1942 and 1943 due to wartime “dimouts” in New York City during World War II.
- The Times Square tradition is rooted in “time-balls” used since the 1830s, originating at England’s Royal Observatory at Greenwich for ship captains to set navigation tools.
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Conclusion
No matter where you are, you can partake in the New Year’s Eve ball drop excitement. With numerous TV broadcasts and online streaming options, watching the ball drop has never been more accessible. Choose your preferred method, gather your loved ones, and get ready to welcome the New Year with this cherished tradition.
