Times Square 2022 with Waterford Crystal

History of the Times Square Ball

The history of the New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square dates back over one hundred years. The first festivity taking place in 1904, with the first ball lowering in 1907. What first began to commemorate the official opening of the new headquarters of The New York Times, is now a proud tradition and universal symbol of the New Year.

For the past 20+ years, the iconic Waterford Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball has counted down to the New Year with revellers from all over the world, inspiring celebration and merriment, true to our core of Irish conviviality. The ball is comprised of over 2,600 crystal panels resulting in an incredible and awe-inspiring sparkle in Times Square. Each panel tells a story of Irish heritage, craftsmanship, and spirit. The story is born in Ireland, where Waterford designers imagine the tale to be told in Times Square each December. An idea, inspired by global themes and universally treasured values, is translated into an exceptional crystal design as unique as the moments each year holds. Master craftsmen place the finishing touches, resulting in incredible facets fit for the magic and radiance of Times Square.

There have been seven versions of the Ball designed to signal the New Year, taking a new form throughout the years for a visual worthy of the attention it keeps. Beginning in 1907, the first ball was made of iron and wood, weighing 700 pounds and covered with 100 light bulbs. In 1920, a 400-pound iron Ball replaced the original version. In 1955, a 150-pound aluminium Ball with 180 light bulbs took the place of the iron Ball. Forty years later, the aluminium Ball was upgraded with aluminium skin, rhinestones, and computer controls. In 1999, the Waterford crystal New Year’s Eve Ball was created to welcome the new millennium. In 2007, modern LED technology replaced the light bulbs of the past in celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the New Year’s Eve Ball. In 2008, the permanent Big Ball was unveiled atop One Times Square where it sparkles above Times Square every day of the year.