Away from the crowds of the New Year's Eve ball drop in Times Square, New York City typically rings in the new year with fireworks displays from Central Park to Coney Island. But for 2025, some had to cancel or change their plans due to ongoing drought conditions.

When Are the New York City Fireworks? The main fireworks show begins at midnight, welcoming the New Year with a stunning finale. Smaller displays and celebrations may occur earlier, but the big event takes place as the clock strikes twelve and the confetti showers Times Square revealers.

The crystal-covered ball that descends down a pole in Times Square to ring in the new year was taken for a test run, as New York City officials laid out their plans for the iconic New Year’s Eve event