New York City is set for the newly minted 'Constellation Ball' to drop from Times Square Wednesday evening to ring in 2026. Organizers gathered Tuesday to give the iconic crystal ball a test run up and then down the 139-foot pole ahead of its grand debut. The ball features 5,280 circular Waterford crystal LED lights. The number is nearly double its predecessors' crystals, which were also triangular in shape. This year, the ball will also symbolize the kickoff of America's 250th birthday celebrations.

Source: The Times December 31, 2025 19:46 UTC