Watching the Times Square Ball Drop for Free and Without: New Year’s Eve 2024

Looking for a way to watch remotely? Here’s how to live stream the 2023 New Year’s Eve countdown and ball drop for free.

watch the Times Square ball drop for free. What TV channels will air the ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve?

Watching the Times Square Ball drop is actually an easy thing to do, even if you don’t have a cable subscription, since it’s aired over so many networks. Just get a good HD antenna (but be sure to test your HD antenna in multiple locations in your home to find the most reliable signal well before midnight).

Here are some of the shows that will be ringing in 2023.

Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest (ABC)

The most well-known of the New Year’s Eve broadcasts starts at 9 p.m. ET this year—and will run for 5.5 hours. Seacrest will be joined this year by new co-host singer Rita Ora. This is the 20^th consecutive year Seacrest has been the master of ceremonies for the highest-rated of all New Year’s Eve programming.

It will be broadcast over the air, but if you’re not near a TV, you can watch the coverage on network’s website, ABC.go.com. You will, however, need a cable subscription to watch on that platform.

New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash (CBS)

Elle King and Rachel Smith host the third annual country music countdown into the New Year. This one starts the festivities the earliest, kicking off the boot scootin’ at 7:30 p.m. ET. Free options to view it include the CBS website and Paramount+.

New Year’s Eve with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen (CNN)

The big question this year is: Will the news network’s most visible anchor and the Bravo host be allowed to drink once again? The show will begin airing at 8:00 p.m. ET. A live stream will be available on CNN.com’s homepage, or it can be viewed on CNNgo and the CNNgo apps for Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire, Chromecast and Android TV. The show will broadcast from Times Square.

Where can I stream the ball drop online for free—even without a cable subscription?

Peacock

NBC’s streaming service will let you watch NBC’s programming, but this year, instead of a New Year’s Eve celebration, the network plans to air Sunday Night Football instead. You can get a seven-day free trial, followed by a $5 or $10 monthly charge. (The free version of Peacock does not include live sports.)

Paramount+

CBS’s streaming service will give you access to that network’s country music New Year’s Eve party. You can get a one-week free trial, followed by a $5 or $10 monthly charge.

Disney+

Disney’s bundle of Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ no longer has a free trial, so you’ll have to pay $13.99 per month for all three combined (or $19.99 per month for no ads on Hulu). Including Live TV in the bundle bumps the price to $70 per month ($76 with no ads).

Hulu with Live TV

The free trial on this service is no longer offered, either. It will cost you $70 per month.

YouTubeTV

After up to a two-week trial, you can expect monthly charges of $65.

Sling TV

Sling’s lower-tiered “Orange” plan runs $40 per month. Adding the more comprehensive “Blue” plan bumps the cost to $55 per month. The seven-day free trial has disappeared along with the price increase, but the cord-cutting service is offering 50% off of the first month’s bill.

DirecTV Stream

Formerly known as DirecTV Now, AT&T TVNow and AT&T TV, this oft-renamed streaming service will run you $70 per month and up after the free trial option.

Are there any webcams where I can watch the ball drop online for free?

Several, actually! The best one to watch, though, is hosted by the official Times Square website. You can access that in one of several ways.

TimesSquareNYC.org

NewYearseve.nyc

TimesSquareBall.net

You can also watch via social media on the Times Square Facebook and Twitter pages.

Introduction

“As the clock strikes midnight, millions of people gather at Times Square in New York City to witness the iconic ball drop, marking the beginning of a new year. However, attending this grand celebration in person may not always be feasible for everyone. Moreover, cable subscriptions can be expensive. But don’t fret! In this article, we’ll guide you on how to watch the Times Square ball drop for free and without cable, making sure you don’t miss out on the excitement of New Year’s Eve 2024.”

Preparing for New Year’s Eve 2024

Before we delve into the various ways to watch the Times Square ball drop on New Year’s Eve 2024, let’s cover the necessary preparations:

Checking the Broadcast Schedule

“To ensure you don’t miss a single moment of the Times Square ball drop, it’s essential to be aware of the broadcast schedule. Multiple networks, like ABC, NBC, and CNN, televise this thrilling event. Make a note of the exact timing and channel lineup to plan your evening accordingly.”

Internet Connection

“Watching the ball drop without cable relies heavily on having a stable internet connection. Ensure your internet service provider is reliable and capable of streaming live events. You don’t want your connection to drop out right as the clock strikes midnight!”

Device Setup

“Prepare the device or devices you plan to use for streaming the ball drop. Whether it’s a smart TV, laptop, tablet, or smartphone, ensure you have the necessary apps or access to websites that will broadcast the event. Charging your devices in advance is a good idea to avoid any last-minute hiccups.”

Watching the Times Square Ball Drop

Now that we’ve covered the preparations, let’s explore different ways to watch the Times Square ball drop without cable:

1. Livestreaming Platforms

“Livestreaming platforms offer a convenient way to watch the ball drop in real-time, completely free of charge. YouTube, for instance, often streams the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration on multiple channels. Search for ‘Times Square ball drop livestream’ closer to the event date, and you’ll find various options to choose from.”

2. Network Websites

“Major networks like ABC and NBC typically offer live streams of the Times Square ball drop through their official websites. Create an account if necessary and check their streaming schedule to ensure you don’t miss this dazzling spectacle.”

3. Social Media

“Social media platforms have become increasingly popular for live event coverage. Follow official accounts and hashtags related to the Times Square ball drop on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Through live videos and user-generated content, you can experience the excitement of the event as it unfolds.”

4. Mobile Apps

“Several mobile apps, such as the official Times Square Ball App, provide live coverage of the New Year’s Eve celebration. Download and install these apps from reliable sources to access high-quality streams, event highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.”

5. Local News Stations

“Many local news stations across the country broadcast the Times Square ball drop as part of their New Year’s Eve coverage. Check your local listings to identify any channels airing the event and tune in to enjoy the festivities right from the comfort of your home.”

Conclusion

“New Year’s Eve 2024 promises to be an unforgettable night, and now you know how to watch the Times Square ball drop for free and without cable. By leveraging livestreaming platforms, network websites, social media, mobile apps, and local news stations, you can join millions of people worldwide in ushering in the new year in grand style. So, mark your calendar, make your preparations, and get ready to be captivated by the magic of the Times Square ball drop!”

Times Square New Year’s Eve 2024 Full Schedule:

6:00pm to 6:03pm Lighting and Raising the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball The celebration begins atop One Times Square with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s Eve Ball where representatives from Carnival Cruise Line and Times Square New Year’s Eve flip the giant switch that lights the New Year’s Eve Ball accompanied by special pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square.

6:04pm to 6:05pm Times Square Reveler Stories Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.

6:06pm to 6:18pm SAFA Chinese Cultural Performance The Sino-American Friendship Association (“SAFA”) presents a spectacular Chinese cultural performance titled “Cheers to 2024 with Wuliang Harmony.” A beautiful blend of modern and traditional music and dance to celebrate the Year of the Dragon on the Countdown Stage at Duffy Island between 46th and 47th Streets. The Chinese cultural performance will conclude with red and gold pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. Performance viewable on the Times Square New Year’s Eve webcast.

6:30pm Times Square 2024 Hats, Balloons, Eyeglasses, Necklaces, Gloves and Scarves The Times Square Alliance sanitation crew clad in bright red uniforms distributes tens of thousands of fun handouts to the Times Square revelers for cheering in the New Year. Planet Fitness is providing festive purple and gold New Year’s Eve hats along with purple & yellow balloons tied with gold mylar ribbons. Fontainebleau Las Vegas is providing bowtie shaped eyeglasses and a commemorative 2024 chip. Carnival Cruise Line is providing illuminated necklaces. Kay Jewelers is providing warm blue gloves. The Sino-American Friendship Association is providing beautiful red scarves.

6:57pm to 7:00pm Hourly Kia Countdown with Jaymes Vaughan As we approach the New Year, Jonathan Bennett joined by Jaymes Vaughan will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year”; and lead the ten second countdown to the 7 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. He will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at midnight and share his wish for the New Year.

7:01pm to 7:02pm Times Square Reveler Stories Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.

7:05pm to 7:17pm New Year’s Eve Musical Performance by Megan Thee Stallion Megan Thee Stallion performs a medley of her hit songs on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.

7:56pm to 8:00pm Hourly Kia Countdown with Gotham FC As we approach the New Year, Jonathan Bennett joined by players from 2023 NWSL champion NJ/NY Gotham FC will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year”; and lead the ten second countdown to the 8 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. They will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at midnight and share their wish for the New Year.

8:01pm to 8:02pm Times Square Reveler Stories Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.

8:03pm to 8:08pm New Year’s Eve Dance Performance by AGNEW New York dance group AGNEW will perform for the revelers on the Planet Fitness Center Stage on the Broadway Plaza between 45th and 46th Streets. Performance viewable on the Times Square New Year’s Eve webcast.

8:10pm to 8:12pm Highlights of Good Riddance Day The host of Times Square New Year’s Eve, Jonathan Bennett will share highlights from Good Riddance Day with the Times Square revelers from the Countdown Stage.

8:30pm to 8:35pm ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by Tyla Tyla performs her hit songs on the Countdown Stage.

8:37pm to 8:55pm Roaming Street Performance by Triad Brass Performance viewable on the Times Square New Year’s Eve webcast.

8:57pm to 9:00pm Hourly Kia Countdown with Jeremy Hassell As we approach the New Year, Jonathan Bennett joined by Jeremy Hassell will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year”; and lead the ten second countdown to the 9 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. He will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at midnight and share his wishes for the New Year.

9:02pm to 9:05pm Kia NYE Inspiration

9:10pm to 9:29pm New Year’s Eve Musical Performance by Flo Rida Flo Rida performs his hit songs “My House,” “Low,” “Wild Ones,” “GDFR,” and the world premiere of his new highly anticipated single “OMG” on the Planet Fitness Center Stage. Performance viewable on the Times Square New Year’s Eve webcast.

9:37pm to 9:43pm ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by Sabrina Carpenter Sabrina Carpenter performs some of her hit songs on the Countdown Stage.

9:49pm to 9:52pm Celebrate Every Kiss with Kay

9:57pm to 10:00pm Hourly Kia Countdown with Planet Fitness As we approach the New Year, Planet Fitness spokesperson will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year”; and lead the ten second countdown to the 10 o’clock hour accompanied by purple and yellow confetti release and colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. The spokesperson will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at midnight and share his wish for the New Year.

10:01pm to 10:02pm Times Square Reveler Stories Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.

10:04pm to 10:08pm Univision’s ¡Feliz 2024!: Performance by Maria Becerra Maria Becerra performs a medley of her hit songs on the Planet Fitness Center Stage. Performance viewable via Univision and the Times Square New Year’s Eve webcast.

10:09pm to 10:12pm Carnival “Choose Fun” Moment

10:21pm to 10:24pm #KayKissCountdown TikTok Hashtag Challenge

10:34pm to 10:40pm ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by Jelly Roll Jelly Roll performs his hit songs on the Countdown Stage.

10:45pm to 10:48pm Kay’s New Year’s Eve Wish

10:57pm to 11:00pm Hourly Kia Countdown with Raúl de Molina As we approach the New Year, Raúl de Molina will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year”; and lead the ten second countdown to the 11 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. He will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at midnight and share his wish for the New Year.

11:02pm to 11:07pm Univision’s ¡Feliz 2024!: Performance by Yng Lvcas Yng Lvcas performs a medley of his hit songs on the Planet Fitness Center Stage. Performance viewable via Univision and the Times Square New Year’s Eve webcast.

11:08pm to 11:11pm Fontainebleau Las Vegas Celebrates

11:12pm to 11:14pm Times Square talks with NYC Mayor Eric Adams Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with New York City Mayor Eric Adams

11:16pm to 11:20pm The Associated Press Presents 2023 Year-In-Review Video Highlights The Associated Press, the world’s oldest and largest news gathering organization, presents a news reel highlighting some of the most memorable events of 2023.

11:38pm to 11:46pm ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: LL Cool J LL Cool J performs his hit songs on the Countdown Stage.

11:51pm to 11:58pm Special Musical Performance by Paul Anka Paul Anka performs his legendary song “My Way” and John Lennon’s “Imagine” on the Planet Fitness Center Stage. Performance viewable on the Times Square New Year’s Eve webcast.

11:59pm The Sixty-Second Countdown The Mayor of New York City joined by players from 2023 NWSL champion NJ/NY Gotham FC pushes the crystal button that signals the descent of the New Year’s Eve Ball, and leads the final sixty-second countdown to the New Year on the Countdown Stage.

The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball The lighted Ball descends 66.7 feet in sixty seconds. The Ball is a geodesic sphere, twelve feet in diameter, weighing 11,875 pounds. The Ball is covered with 2,688 crystal triangles and lit by 32,256 LEDs.

12:00am — New Year’s Day 2024 Sign At the stroke of Midnight, the lights on the New Year’s Eve Ball are turned off as the numerals of the New Year “2024″ burst to life shining high above Times Square.

Times Square Confetti Release and Pyrotechnic Effects The world-famous New Year’s Eve confetti is released from the rooftops of buildings throughout Times Square creating a celebratory blizzard of colorful confetti as revelers welcome the New Year accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects. The three thousand pounds of confetti includes tens of thousands of wishes from revelers around the world hoping for peace, love, good health and a better future in the new year.

12:04am to 12:09am Fontainebleau 70th Anniversary Surprise Video Performance and Ball Re-lighting In honor of their 70th anniversary, Fontainebleau is presenting a surprise video countdown and musical performance to highlight the re-lighting of the Times Square Ball for 2024!

12:15am — End of Show

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL !!!!!!!!!!

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