What Time Does the Ball Drop on New Year’s Eve? Navigating Different Time Zones Can Be Confusing.
When it’s midnight in New York City, millions will either witness the famous ball drop live in Times Square or from the comfort of their homes. However, for much of the country, midnight will still be hours away.
For Americans in different time zones, the ball drop carries a different significance. In Los Angeles, for example, it happens at 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Those in Hawaii or certain U.S. territories will see an even later countdown; people in Guam will have already welcomed 2025 long before the ball drops on the East Coast.
After the festivities in Times Square end, the ball doesn’t descend again for others across the country, but there are many ways for everyone to enjoy the celebrations and watch the event unfold.
Catch the Ball Drop at Midnight ET and Go to Sleep
Some viewers will take advantage of their time zone differences to enjoy New Year’s Eve shows from the East Coast, heading to bed early while still feeling like they’ve ushered in the new year.
West Coast residents can tune in to watch the ball drop at 9 p.m. PST and still hit the hay long before midnight strikes.
Countdowns Across the Country
Throughout the night, you can follow several countdown broadcasts to 2025 in various time zones. For instance, a program by Nexstar Media Group will kick off at 11 p.m. EST, featuring countdowns from four time zones.
Enjoy a Different Countdown in Your Time Zone
The iconic Times Square ball isn’t the only one making a descent to commemorate New Year’s Eve. Many cities host their own unique dropping ceremonies at midnight local time.
In the Central Time Zone, for instance, CBS will broadcast “Nashville’s Big Bash” starting at 7 p.m. CST, including a countdown for Eastern Time followed by a Central Time countdown marked by the dropping of a music note.
In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a giant illuminated anchor will descend at midnight as part of their festivities, while in Mobile, Alabama, a massive 15-pound edible MoonPie in blueberry flavor will drop, according to local news reports.
Milwaukie, Oregon, will drop a large lighted cherry at 9 p.m. PST as they join the East Coast’s New Year’s celebration.
Catch the NYC Ball Drop Later
For those who wish to view the NYC ball drop, it’s possible to watch a delayed broadcast after the live event ends. Check your local TV listings to see if a delayed airing of the ball drop will be available, so you can revel in the celebration when your own clock strikes midnight.