Wed Dec 31 21:30:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Times Square Gears Up for Spectacular New Year’s Eve Celebration, Welcoming 2026 with New “Constellation Ball”

NEW YORK CITY – December 31, 2025 – Times Square is buzzing with anticipation as final preparations are underway for tonight’s New Year’s Eve extravaganza, set to bid farewell to 2025 and usher in 2026 with dazzling flair.

The centerpiece of the annual celebration, the newly updated “Constellation Ball,” was tested on December 30th, showcasing its brilliance ahead of the big night. Boasting 5,280 Waterford crystals and cutting-edge LED lighting, this year’s ball nearly doubles the crystal count of its predecessor, making it the most spectacular iteration yet. Measuring 12.5 feet in diameter and weighing over 12,000 pounds, the ball will drop at precisely 11:59 p.m. ET, kicking off the new year.

Beyond the iconic ball drop, the evening will feature a cascade of 3,000 pounds of confetti carrying well-wishes for the year ahead. This year’s celebration also holds special significance, marking the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. At approximately 12:04 a.m. ET, the ball will be relit with a unique America250 design, adding an extra layer of patriotic fervor to the festivities.

For those unable to attend in person, numerous options are available to experience the magic of Times Square from afar. CNN’s “New Year’s Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen” will begin at 8 p.m. ET, offering viewers a star-studded broadcast featuring musical performances, celebrity appearances, and live coverage from around the globe. Performances from Robyn, B.o.B, and Tones and I will light up the stage in Times Square.

Additional live coverage will be provided by CNN reporters stationed in New Orleans, the Bahamas, Greater Lauderdale, and Prescott, Arizona. The program will also be available on CNN’s new streaming subscription platform and connected TV apps.

Other networks and platforms will also be providing coverage, including a commercial-free webcast on the official Times Square website starting at 6 p.m. ET, which will include backstage access and celebrity interviews. USA TODAY will also be streaming the New Year’s Eve celebrations live from Times Square starting 10 p.m. ET.

About Times Square New Year’s Eve:

The Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration is a globally recognized event, attracting thousands of revelers to New York City each year. This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable experience, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology to create a night of unparalleled entertainment.

Performers Include:

  • Florence + The Machine
  • RAYE
  • Stephen Colbert
  • Brandi Carlile
  • B.o.B
  • Tones and I

Additional Performances From:

*Brandy and Monica from The BPC (Black Promoters Collective) The Boy Is Mine Tour, Bryan Adams, and Shakira

Contact:

Saman Shafiq
sshafiq@gannett.com

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