NYC In Focus

By Howard Weiss

Published on NYC in Focus | December 19, 2024

Today marked an unforgettable moment in Times Square as I joined hundreds of eager New Yorkers and visitors for a special preview of the One Times Square Crystal VIP Experience. This exclusive event invited participants to take part in a tradition typically reserved for the behind-the-scenes crew: replacing crystal triangles on the iconic Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball.

As someone who has spent countless years marveling at the ball drop both in person and on television, the opportunity to take home a crystal triangle from the ball felt surreal. Only 700 crystal triangles were distributed, representing different years in the ball’s illustrious history. Attendees began lining up as early as 5 a.m., and the palpable excitement in the air was a testament to how much this moment meant to everyone involved.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

For me, the experience was deeply personal. I was lucky enough to receive the 2014 Swarovski crystal, which was designed to symbolize the “Gift of Imagination” and marked the 100th anniversary of Swarovski’s partnership with the New Year’s Eve Ball. This specific crystal is not just a keepsake; it’s a tangible connection to a cherished tradition that has defined New York City’s celebratory spirit for over a century.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

A Glimpse of the Future: The Crystal VIP Experience

This event wasn’t just about celebrating the past; it was also a preview of what’s to come. Starting in 2025, One Times Square will offer a Crystal VIP Experience, where ticketed guests will have a behind-the-scenes opportunity to place a new crystal directly on the ball and take home a personalized crystal as a keepsake. This innovative program is part of a broader effort to make One Times Square a year-round destination for interactive and immersive experiences.

The New Year’s Eve Ball, a 12-foot geodesic sphere weighing nearly 12,000 pounds, is covered with 2,688 crystal triangles, each showcasing intricate designs and themes that change annually. This year’s design features two patterns:

• The 2025 One Times Square Crystal Design: Representing unity and progress with linear cuts and a circle at the top, symbolizing the iconic building.

• The Ever Crystal Design: Three interlocking rings surrounded by diamond-shaped facets, symbolizing enduring love and unity.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

Cherished Memories and a Timeless Tradition

The significance of receiving a piece of the New Year’s Eve Ball as a lifelong New Yorker cannot be overstated. For generations, this iconic ball drop has been a unifying symbol of hope and renewal. Holding a crystal triangle in my hand—a piece of that history—is a moment I will treasure forever.

As the day wrapped up, I couldn’t help but reflect on how this simple yet profound tradition captures the magic of New York City: a city where dreams, history, and innovation collide.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

To learn more about the Crystal VIP Experience and the future of One Times Square, visit onetimessquare.com.