As New Year’s Eve celebrations approach in Times Square, an unusual trend has emerged among partygoers determined to brave the freezing temperatures—adult diapers. As the crowds gathered, vendors took advantage of the situation by selling Depends adult diapers for as much as $50 a pair, with some revelers opting to wear multiple layers to avoid bathroom emergencies during the long wait for the iconic ball drop.
Orlando Mendez, a vendor from The Bronx, shared his strategy for the night. He noted that once attendees enter the designated pens for the festivities, they are unable to leave, creating a pressing need for a solution to the lack of restroom access. “It’s funny ’til it’s not,” Mendez remarked, as he sold pairs of diapers to participants who wished to ensure they could remain in the celebration despite the limited facilities.
With the night’s temperatures expected to be the coldest Dec. 31 in New York since 2017, many attending the event decided to enhance their comfort by layering on adult pull-ups. Nottie Ndlovu, a 38-year-old engineer visiting from Dallas, explained her choice to wear two diapers along with multiple layers of clothing, stating, “You never know, but I hope I don’t have to use them.” To further adhere to festive traditions, she planned to eat 12 grapes at midnight — a custom rooted in Spanish celebrations aimed at attracting good luck for each month of the upcoming year.
Similarly, Kimberly Myers, a preschool teacher from Santa Monica, prepared for the celebration with not only a diaper but also a variety of survival supplies, from thermal leggings and hand warmers to snacks like trail mix and pumpkin seeds. “I feel like I’m prepared but still a little nervous,” she admitted, excited about experiencing the festivities she had watched on television as a child.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, Mendez expressed optimism regarding the potential for profit as the night progresses, indicating that demand for his adult diapers could increase as the crowd’s need for comfort grows. This year’s New Year’s Eve gathering, marked by its unique preparations, showcases not only the spirit of celebration in New York City but also the remarkable lengths to which revelers will go to ensure they make the most of one of the year’s most anticipated events.