A stunning Waterford crystal ball from Ireland took centre stage in New York City’s Times Square as millions around the world counted down to the start of 2026.
The iconic New Year’s Eve ball drop — one of the most watched global traditions — featured the newly designed Constellation Ball, adorned with 5,280 Waterford crystals, nearly double the number used on previous balls. This dazzling design replaces the triangular crystal shapes first introduced in 1999 with circular crystal discs symbolising infinite joy, life, and new beginnings.
Measuring 12.5 feet in diameter and weighing more than 12,000 pounds, the Constellation Ball is the largest New Year’s Eve ball yet and marked a fresh chapter in the century‑long Times Square tradition.
As midnight approached on New Year’s Eve, the ball began its descent from the top of One Times Square, illuminating the packed crowds below with a dazzling display of sparkling crystal and brilliant LED lights. The installation combines Waterford’s world‑renowned craftsmanship with state‑of‑the‑art lighting technology, creating a spectacle watched by millions in person and online as the world welcomed in 2026.
Representatives from Waterford said the new crystal design was created to reflect hope, unity, and the promise of a fresh start — ideals that resonate with New Year celebrations around the world.
The tradition of the Times Square ball drop dates back to 1907, and this year’s spectacular Waterford crystal feature showcased Irish craftsmanship on one of the biggest stages in the world, reminding viewers everywhere of Waterford’s long‑standing reputation for excellence in crystal design.
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