If you want to get a good spot for watching the ball drop, you should arrive early in the day. The area starts to get crowded in the afternoon, and by early evening, it's almost impossible to move around. If you're not interested in watching the ball drop, you can arrive later in the evening, when the crowds are thinner.
Here's a general timeline of what happens on New Year's Eve in Times Square:
* 4:00 PM: The Times Square New Year's Eve Celebration begins. The area is closed to traffic, and the streets are filled with people.
* 6:00 PM: The New Year's Eve Ball is raised to the top of the One Times Square building.
* 11:00 PM: The ball begins its descent.
* 11:59 PM: The ball reaches the bottom of the pole, and the crowd erupts in cheers.
* 12:00 AM: The new year begins, and the crowd sings "Auld Lang Syne."
If you're planning on attending the New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square, be sure to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. You'll be standing in the cold for several hours, so you want to make sure you're prepared. You should also bring some snacks and drinks, as there are limited food options in the area.
Finally, be aware of the security measures in place. There are heavy police presence on New Year's Eve in Times Square, and you may be subject to searches.