NEW YORK — In preparation for the 2026 New Year’s Eve celebration, workers in New York City are busy installing brand-new Waterford Crystal pieces onto the Times Square Ball. This year, the ball will feature circular panels, as older designs make way for the latest themed crystals.

Waterford Crystal’s President highlighted that the ball is adorned with 5,280 crystal discs, each carrying the theme of “infinity.”

“Our design this year showcases a circular motif, symbolizing infinity. It embodies the concept of endless possibilities, hope, and forward-thinking,” explained Bentley Frost-Hardwick.

Though the ball remains atop One Times Square throughout the year, it undergoes a transformation in the days leading up to December 31. Crews meticulously replace the crystals, turning the everyday fixture into a dazzling centerpiece for the New Year’s Eve countdown.

“Each one of the discs, there are three different designs represent three different ideas, one: life, liberty and happiness to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary. So we’re looking forward to a 2026 year of hope, happiness, love and good cheer,” Frost-Hardwick added. 

For the first time since the Times Square tradition started on New Year’s Eve 1907, there will be a second ball drop in 2026. 

The second drop will happen on July 3, the night before Independence Day 2026. The festivities are part of the many celebrations planned for America’s 250th birthday. 

The patriotic touches at this year’s New Year’s Eve Times Square gathering, including a second confetti drop, will offer an early glimpse of what’s ahead: hundreds of events and programs, big and small, planned nationwide to mark the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

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