As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, millions of people around the world tune in to one of the most iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations: the Times Square Ball Drop in New York City.

The falling ball, surrounded by millions of spectators, marks the beginning of a new year and is a moment of collective joy and excitement.

But what if you’re not in New York or can’t make it to a TV screen? Don’t worry! With today’s technology, you can stream the ball drop from anywhere in the world, whether you’re relaxing on your couch or attending a party.

Here’s a guide to help you stream the iconic New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in the easiest and most reliable ways possible.

New Year’s Ball Drop Streaming Services at a Glance

There are multiple services available to stream the New Year’s Eve ball drop, each with their own advantages. Here’s a detailed overview of the best streaming options, including both well-known services and a few hidden gems that may offer just what you’re looking for.

1. Sling TV

Sling TV is one of the most popular live TV streaming services, and it offers a variety of channels that broadcast major events like the Times Square Ball Drop. With Sling TV, you can stream live TV from over 30 channels, including those that cover the iconic ball drop event.

Why it’s a good pick: Sling TV provides a budget-friendly way to access live TV channels without the need for a traditional cable subscription. They offer a mix of entertainment, news, and sports channels, which means you can also use it to stream a variety of shows and events throughout the year.

What to check: Make sure that the Sling package you subscribe to includes the channels that will be broadcasting the New Year’s Eve event, such as ABC or NBC. If you’re unsure, you can check the channel lineup on the Sling TV website before signing up. Also, verify that the stream is available in your location, as some regional restrictions may apply.

Tip: If you’re planning to use Sling TV to watch the ball drop, be sure to sign up in advance and test your connection to avoid technical issues when the countdown begins. You can also check if Sling offers a free trial period to test the service ahead of time.

2. Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV is a great choice if you want more than just live television—it’s an all-in-one streaming service that combines live TV with an extensive library of on-demand content. Hulu’s live TV package includes many major networks, such as ABC, NBC, and FOX, which broadcast special New Year’s Eve events, including the Times Square Ball Drop.

Why it’s strong: Hulu offers a combination of live TV and on-demand content, meaning you get access to the latest episodes of your favorite shows, as well as big events like the ball drop. It’s perfect if you’re already a Hulu subscriber or want to explore both live streaming and traditional TV shows.

What to check: Before committing to a Hulu + Live TV plan, confirm that the channel airing the Times Square Ball Drop special is part of your package. Additionally, verify that your internet connection is fast enough to handle live streaming without buffering, especially during peak hours on New Year’s Eve.

Tip: Hulu offers a 7-day free trial for new customers, so you can use this trial to check if the service is right for you and ensure that everything works properly before the big night.

3. DirecTV Stream

Formerly known as AT&T TV, DirecTV Stream is a well-established live TV streaming service that offers a variety of plans to suit different viewing needs. If you’re looking to stream the Times Square Ball Drop, DirecTV Stream gives you access to channels that will be covering the event, including major networks like ABC, NBC, and others.

Why it’s useful: DirecTV Stream offers a wide range of channels and is often touted as a reliable service for streaming live events. It’s a solid option for people who want to experience New Year’s Eve without the hassle of a cable box.

What to check: Make sure the plan you choose includes the channels broadcasting the ball drop. You may also want to check if there are any regional restrictions or blackout zones that might affect your ability to access the stream from your location.

Tip: Like other streaming services, it’s a good idea to test out DirecTV Stream in advance, especially if you’re planning on watching the ball drop with a group of people. Make sure that the service works seamlessly on the devices you plan to use.

4. fuboTV

fuboTV started as a sports-focused streaming service, but it has grown into a full-fledged live TV service offering a wide variety of channels. It provides excellent coverage for major events, including the Times Square Ball Drop. With a subscription to fuboTV, you can enjoy both sports and entertainment channels, making it a versatile choice for your streaming needs.

Why consider it: If you’re a sports fan, fuboTV offers excellent sports coverage, but it’s also a solid option for general entertainment. The service offers access to a variety of live channels, so you’ll have no problem streaming the Times Square Ball Drop or any other New Year’s Eve special.

What to check: As always, check the channel lineup before committing to a plan. Ensure that fuboTV includes the network broadcasting the ball drop, and confirm that the service is available in your region.

Tip: fuboTV offers a 7-day free trial, which is perfect for testing the service and making sure you have access to the channels you need. It’s a great way to enjoy the ball drop without committing to a subscription.

5. Vidgo

Vidgo is another live TV streaming service that has been growing in popularity. While it may not be as well-known as other platforms, Vidgo offers a number of channels that broadcast New Year’s Eve celebrations, including the Times Square Ball Drop.

Why it might work: Vidgo offers a more affordable streaming option while still providing access to many major networks. If you’re on a budget or don’t want to pay for an expensive subscription, Vidgo could be a good choice.

What to check: Before you sign up, verify that the New Year’s Eve event will be covered by one of the channels in your plan. Vidgo may not have the same extensive channel offerings as other services, so double-check the lineup before committing.

Tip: Vidgo offers an affordable entry-level plan, and you can use their free trial to make sure the service works well with your devices and provides the event coverage you need.

Alternative Viewing Options

In addition to streaming services, there are several other ways to catch the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. These alternative options are particularly helpful if you don’t have access to a major streaming platform or if you’re looking for a different viewing experience.

Mobile Streaming

One of the easiest ways to stream the ball drop is via your smartphone or tablet. Many official broadcasts of the Times Square event offer live webcasts through apps or websites. These webcasts are typically free to watch, and they give you a great view of the ball drop, along with behind-the-scenes footage.

Why it’s helpful: Mobile streaming allows you to watch the ball drop from anywhere, whether you’re at home, out at a party, or traveling. If you prefer watching on the go, mobile streaming is a convenient and accessible option.

What to check: Ensure that the stream is available in your location and that your device has enough data or a solid Wi-Fi connection to avoid interruptions. Some mobile streaming services may require you to download an app or sign in to a third-party platform, so make sure you’re prepared ahead of time.

Social Media Coverage

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube often broadcast major events, including the Times Square Ball Drop. Many organizations and news outlets provide live streams of the ball drop event on their official pages or channels.

Why it’s helpful: Social media streams are usually free, and many platforms offer interactive features like live chat or real-time updates, making the experience more engaging.

What to check: Before the event, make sure to follow the official accounts or channels that will be streaming the event. Check that the stream is available in your region, and that it’s the official feed to ensure you’re getting the best quality.

Television Broadcasts

If you have access to a television with cable or satellite service, you can watch the ball drop live on major networks like ABC, NBC, and CNN. These networks typically air their own versions of the event, including musical performances and celebrity appearances.

Why it matters: Television broadcasts of the ball drop tend to have high-quality production values and can offer a more polished, professional viewing experience than online streams.

What to check: Make sure your television package includes the network that will be broadcasting the event. Additionally, check the time of the broadcast to ensure you don’t miss the countdown.

Embrace the New Year with the Perfect Stream

Whether you choose a streaming service, mobile app, or traditional television broadcast, the key to a great New Year’s Eve celebration is finding a viewing method that works best for you. Here are some tips to make sure you have the best experience:

• Test Your Setup: Before the big night, make sure your streaming service or device is set up and working properly. This could include testing your internet connection, signing in to the service ahead of time, and verifying that you have access to the channels you need.

• Get the Timing Right: The New Year’s Eve ball drop happens at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time in New York City, so be sure to adjust for your local time zone. If you’re in a different part of the world, calculate the local time to ensure you’re ready to watch when the countdown starts.

• Create a Festive Atmosphere: Add some extra excitement by decorating your space with New Year’s Eve party supplies, like streamers, confetti, and party hats. You can also prepare some festive drinks and snacks to enjoy while watching the event with family or friends.

• Consider Social Viewing: If you’re not physically together with friends or family, consider setting up a group chat, video call, or streaming party. Watching the ball drop is a great shared experience, even if you’re miles apart.

• Enjoy the Moment: The New Year’s Eve ball drop is a special occasion, so take a moment to reflect on the past year and make a wish for the year ahead. Whether you’re watching alone or with loved ones, the excitement of ringing in the new year is something everyone can enjoy.

With these tips and tools, you’ll be able to stream the New Year’s Eve ball drop from virtually anywhere. Whether you’re at home, at a party, or traveling, you don’t have to miss out on this iconic celebration. Cheers to new beginnings!