Times Square’s New Year party is one of the most-awaited annual events. But, the ongoing pandemic posed a lot of uncertainty surrounding the celebrations, and many are wondering if this year’s Times Square ball drop has been cancelled.
New York City’s mayor, Bill de Blasio, previously told CNN that they were hopeful of the annual New Year’s Eve Times Square celebration to go on as planned.
So, here’s everything you need to know about the status of the event.
Is the 2022 Times Square ball drop cancelled?
No, the annual ball drop at Times Square hasn’t been cancelled, but several restrictions have been imposed on the event.
The crowd size has been considerably reduced and there will be a mask rule in place to minimize the spread of the Omicron variant by allowing more social distancing.
The attendees are required to carry proof of their vaccination. “Unvaccinated minors under the age of five must be accompanied by a vaccinated adult to enter the event,” the official site says.
Commenting on the newly implemented safety precautions, the President of Times Square Alliance said, “We’re actually very excited that we’re able to find a way to welcome revelers back in Times Square, and do it in a safe, responsible manner. In the middle of this recent outbreak.”
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Unlike previous years, the attendees won’t be allowed to enter until 3 pm.
And, you will not be allowed to re-enter the event after leaving the Square for “any reason.”
The celebration will begin shortly before 6 pm and approximately at the same time, the ball will be raised to the top of the pole at One Times Square.
As usual, the ball will make its descent starting at 11:59 pm to bring in the New Year.
The attendees can only enter Times Square from 6th Avenue or 8th Avenue on the evening of December 31st and you aren’t permitted to carry certain restricted items such as alcohol, large coolers, picnic blankets, umbrellas, backpacks, and lawn or other folding chairs.
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How to watch the celebration online?
You can watch the 2022 Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration live on TimesSquareNYC.org.
Furthermore, the event can also be streamed on the VNYE app by Jamestown, the owner of One Times Square.
You can also tune in to ABC.com on the day of the celebration or stream it on Hulu on January 1 on demand.
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