In a New York minute we will collectively be counting down to 2026 and ringing in another momentous chapter.
A tradition that is epically timeless is the ball dropping in Times Square. The most recognizable symbol in the world is the calling card for this poignant event which takes place like clockwork.
The Installation of the new 2026 Waterford Crystals on the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball atop the roof of One Times Square took place on Dec. 27. The snow fluttered as a chilly wind blew over the landmark setting. But the day warmed up with the dazzle of the crystals that sparkled a symbolic hope for the dawning of a new year.
Officials toasting in the udpated design were Michael Phillips, President, Jamestown, the owner and operator of One Times Square, Sherri White, Executive, Jamestown and One Times Square, Co-Organizer of New Year’s Eve, Tom Harris, President, Times Square Alliance, Co-Organizer of New Year’s Eve, and Bentley Hardwick, Global Head of Waterford.
The Constellation Ball is adorned with 5,280 crystals and LED light pucks, nearly double the number of crystals as the previous Ball. It features circular crystals for the first time, provided by the official crystal of the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball, Waterford. There are three different crystal sizes on the Ball: 1.5-inch, 3-inch, and 4-inch in diameter. Each crystal size features its own unique design, which will change annually and be installed anew each year.
The 2026 New Year’s Eve Ball marks the second installment of Waterford’s Infinite Edition, a multi-year design series created for the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball. Launched in 2025 with the debut theme of “Infinite Joy, Infinite Light, Infinite Beginnings,” the series features three circular crystal disc sizes each year, all unified by an exploration of what it means to be infinite.
On theme “Infinite Life, Infinite Liberty, Infinite Happiness” comes to life through interwoven curves and circular motifs that symbolize the shared ideals at the heart of America’s story. As the official crystal of the Times Square Ball, Waterford’s craftsmanship, legacy, and design remain central to the nation’s most iconic New Year celebration.
The Constellation Ball is the ninth iteration of the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball since its debut in 1907. Measuring 12.5 feet in diameter and weighing 12,350 pounds, it is the largest New Year’s Eve Ball yet.
To mankind it represents a beloved tradition that elevates hope to soaring heights. Ignite a grand future with the ease of 3, 2, 1….
Happy New Year!!!!
