Arguably the most famous New Year's event is the dropping of the spectacular crystal ball in Times Square, New York City, on December 31st. The celebration is broadcast on many television channels, but some revelers want to experience the spectacular event in person. The following is a guide to help you enjoy the celebration in Times Square should you end up attending.

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[edit] Steps

First and foremost, wear a warm jacket/scarf/mittens/etc. if you are going to see the ball drop. Winter temperatures in New York City can get downright chilly and brisk, especially during New Year's, so make sure you bundle up unless you want to stand outside for many long hours freezing yourself off.
Make sure you arrive early - that can mean anytime between 1PM-5PM - if you want to provide yourself with a nice view of the ball and the entertainment stages. If you arrive later, you risk receiving a crummy, crowded spot with no view, or, in worst cases, you won't be permitted into Times Square at all.
Make this clear to yourself - there are no portable bathrooms in Times Square. Unless you want to hold it in for eight hours, try not to drink excessive amounts of liquids before or while you wait in Times Square.
It might be a good idea to bring a family member or a close friend along with you to Times Square. Although you may be able to chat with the revelers around you, you might want to pass the time talking to someone you know well instead.
If you are looking for a view of the entertainers who will be performing in Times Square, make sure you find a spot near any of the stages assembled throughout the Square. If you are lucky enough to grab a spot right beside the stage, chances are you will be able to shake hands or even talk with the entertainers after their performances.
When the countdown reaches the final ten seconds, chant the numbers with the hundreds of thousands of fellow revelers in Times Square. And at midnight, cheer as loud as you can, kiss your spouse, and enjoy the post-ball drop music.

[edit] Tips

Don't be upset if you have a crummy view of the ball drop or entertainers in Times Square. Huge video screens are set up throughout the area that display live coverage of the event, as well as the countdown, for revelers who haven't made it to the center of the action.
This event is very popular with the young adult age group, but you may see families with young children or elders in Times Square. But beware that young children may become fidgety and impatient waiting in the cold with nothing for them to do (unless you have brought a favorite book, magazine, toy, etc. of theirs). You may also want to keep an eye on your fellow elder joining you, because they could become ill or faint just standing outside in the brisk air for several hours.
This event is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you may feel you want to try one time, but some revelers who "survived" the crowded, cold, noisy event have vowed not to return and instead watch it on television from the comfort of their living room.

[edit] Warnings

No alcohol is permitted in Times Square during the New Year's celebration. If you are caught drinking alcohol, the police will confiscate the drink.
Once you leave your spot to go to the bathroom, eat at a restaurant, or return to your hotel room, you will not be permitted back to your spot.