New Year's Eve In Times Square: What You Need To Know Before The Ball Drops

New York City is gearing up for the most anticipated event of the year, the iconic ball drop in Times Square, to ring in 2024. As the city prepares for the massive celebration, here's a comprehensive guide for revelers planning to attend the festivities.

Event Details:

The New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square officially kicks off around 6 p.m., with the dazzling ball set to make its one-minute descent at 11:59 p.m., marking the beginning of the new year.

Ticket Information:

No tickets are required for the annual celebration; it's a free event open to everyone on a first-come, first-serve basis. However, private parties in various restaurants and hotels within Times Square may require advance ticket purchases.

Star-Studded Performances:

Rita Ora will headline the festivities, joined by an all-star lineup of artists including LL Cool J, Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Paul Anka, Flo Rida, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tyla. 

The celebration is part of "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest," featuring additional performances from around the country.

What to Bring (and Not to Bring):

Given the potentially freezing conditions, attendees are advised to dress warmly, wearing layers, wind-resistant outerwear, and a hat.

However, certain items are prohibited, including backpacks, large bags, umbrellas, lawn chairs, picnic blankets, large coolers, and alcohol (public drinking is illegal in NYC).

Heightened Security Measures:

In light of heightened tensions over the Middle East crisis and an increased terror alert, the NYPD is intensifying security. Mayor Eric Adams, a former police officer, assured the public of a finely-tuned law enforcement strategy but expressed concern over the added layer of recent protests.

"We cannot tolerate that and we can't accept it," Mayor Adams emphasized, referring to a small group attempting to incite the crowd.

Logistics and Street Closures:

No portable restrooms will be available in Times Square during the celebration. Street closures begin at 4 a.m. on Dec. 31, progressing from 43rd Street and Broadway northward. Seventh Avenue will be closed to traffic from 42nd to 48th streets, with side streets closing from 43rd to 48th Streets. By 11 a.m., Seventh Avenue and Broadway will be closed from 38th to 59th streets.

Pedestrian access points include 49th, 52nd, and 56th streets from both Sixth and Eighth avenues.

Transportation Tips:

Public transportation is recommended due to traffic and street closures. The 1, 2, 3, 7, A, B, C, D, E, F, M, N, Q, R, W, and S shuttle trains all serve the Times Square area, but attendees should check for any weekend service changes by calling the MTA at 511 or visiting www.mta.info.

Businesses with Views of the Ball:

If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere with a view of the festivities, consider these businesses:

• Renaissance New York
• Marriott Marquis
• The Knickerbocker
• Bubba Gump Shrimp Company
• Olive Garden
• R Lounge
• Beast and Butterflies at the M Social
• Bar 54 at the Hyatt Centric
• Tempo by Hilton at TSX Broadway

As the city prepares for the grand spectacle, New Yorkers and visitors alike are ready to welcome 2024 with open arms in the heart of Times Square.