The countdown to the New Year is nearly here, with Times Square set to host its iconic ball drop event in under 24 hours. This year, Ryan Seacrest will take center stage as the host of ABC’s special “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2025.” Seacrest, celebrating his 20th year in this role, will be joined by co-host Rita Ora, and the night will feature an impressive lineup of performers, including Carrie Underwood, the Jonas Brothers, and Alanis Morissette, among others.
The festivities were given a colorful boost on Friday when rapper Pitbull unveiled the 2025 New Year’s Eve Ball, completing its installation with vibrant glass tiles. The ball itself, designed to symbolize “unity and enduring love,” measures 12 feet in diameter and weighs nearly 12,000 pounds. It is adorned with 2,688 tiles made by the New York-based Gillinder Glass, which allows the ball to display over 16 million colors and billions of patterns, creating a stunning visual effect.
The Times Square ball drop tradition dates back to 1907, making it a cherished ritual that has become a universal symbol of welcoming the New Year. Audiences can tune in to the live broadcast on ABC at 8 p.m. ET, with streaming available on Hulu the following day. For those who prefer to watch online, a commercial-free livestream will be offered on Times Square’s official website starting at 6 p.m.
The countdown culminates with the ball’s descent at 11:59 p.m. ET, a moment that will be accompanied by a performance of John Lennon’s classic “Imagine” before the new year officially begins.
As the world prepares for New Year’s celebrations, the sense of unity and hope for the future resonates strongly. This year’s gathering in Times Square promises not only to be a spectacular event but also a collective celebration of resilience and togetherness as we step into a new chapter.
In summary, Times Square is ready to welcome the new year with its grand ball drop event, featuring Ryan Seacrest and an array of talented artists. Viewers can expect an unforgettable night filled with music, lights, and togetherness that reinforces the spirit of celebration.