Holbrook, New York, January 1, 2026
American Metal Spinning, a company based in Holbrook, has played a critical role in this year’s Times Square New Year’s Eve festivities by crafting the Constellation Ball. This collaboration highlights the importance of local businesses in national celebrations and showcases their innovative spirit. The Constellation Ball, adorned with Waterford Crystal panels and LED lights, reflects modern design and outstanding craftsmanship, emphasizing how local entrepreneurship drives economic growth in New York.
Holbrook, New York: Local Business Crafts Times Square’s New Year’s Eve Ball
A Holbrook company brings innovation to an iconic tradition
Holbrook, New York – In a remarkable display of local craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit, Holbrook-based American Metal Spinning has taken center stage in this year’s Times Square New Year’s Eve festivities. The company has been instrumental in creating the aluminum outer shell of the much-anticipated ball, which has dazzled crowds worldwide for over a century. This project showcases how local businesses can contribute significantly to national celebrations, revitalizing New York’s economy through innovation and dedication.
The Times Square ball drop, a cherished tradition since 1907, represents not just a passage into the new year, but also the resilience and creativity of entrepreneurs. This year, the design of the iconic ball incorporated advanced spinning techniques to achieve a rounder shape, a move aimed at enhancing its aesthetic appeal. American Metal Spinning’s commitment to quality and precision sets a stellar example of how local businesses can thrive when given the opportunity to innovate without undue regulatory barriers.
The New Year’s Eve Tradition and the Constellation Ball
The Times Square ball drop has been a hallmark of New York City’s New Year’s celebrations, featuring the illuminated ball’s descent at midnight on December 31st. The event symbolically marks the close of one year and the hopeful arrival of another. This year, the ball, aptly named the “Constellation Ball,” is the largest ever created, standing at 12.5 feet in diameter and weighing an impressive 12,350 pounds. It is adorned with 5,280 Waterford Crystal panels and LED light pucks, almost doubling the number of lights compared to the previous design. The circular crystals reflect a modern design approach that enhances the ball’s luminosity and visual impact.
Craftsmanship Meets Modern Design
The artistry behind the Constellation Ball is a testament to the craftsmanship of American Metal Spinning. Keith Morse, the third-generation owner, oversees a skilled team that meticulously crafted about 120 shallow domes for the ball. Their work fuses traditional metal spinning techniques with contemporary aesthetics, illustrating how small local businesses can leverage their expertise to contribute to significant projects on a national scale. American Metal Spinning’s versatility is evident in its production range, which includes everything from aircraft components to unique artistic items.
The Importance of Local Business in Iconic Events
This collaboration between American Metal Spinning and Times Square organizers is a prime example of how local entrepreneurship enriches the vibrancy of New York City’s cultural landscape. As cities navigate recovery from economic challenges, the involvement of small businesses in large-scale projects exemplifies the potential for innovation to drive economic growth. Allowing local entrepreneurs to flourish creates a more resilient economic environment, benefiting the entire community.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Local Businesses
The success of this partnership is not just a momentary spotlight; it highlights the ongoing narrative of small business resilience and innovation. As New York continues to rebound, fostering an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive may pave the way for a robust economic future. The enhanced visual and experiential qualities of the Constellation Ball reflect not just a celebratory practice but a collaborative effort strengthening the local economy.
Call to Action
As we welcome the New Year, let us remember the invaluable contributions of local businesses like American Metal Spinning. Supporting these enterprises not only sustains the fabric of our communities but also drives the economy forward. Engage with your local businesses, celebrate their achievements, and recognize their role in making New York a vibrant place to live and work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Times Square ball drop?
The Times Square ball drop is an annual event in New York City where a large, illuminated ball descends atop One Times Square at midnight on New Year’s Eve, marking the arrival of the new year. The tradition began in 1907 and has been held annually since, except during wartime blackouts in 1942 and 1943.
Who is American Metal Spinning?
American Metal Spinning is a Holbrook-based company specializing in metal spinning, a process that involves shaping metal into round forms. The company produces a diverse range of products, including aircraft parts, high-end lighting, and artistic items.
What is the “Constellation Ball”?
The “Constellation Ball” is the latest iteration of the Times Square New Year’s Eve ball. It is the largest to date, measuring 12.5 feet in diameter and weighing 12,350 pounds. The design features 5,280 Waterford Crystal panels and LED light pucks, with circular crystals enhancing its luminosity.
Key Features of the Times Square Ball Drop
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event | Annual New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square, New York City |
| Tradition Start | 1907, with annual occurrences except during wartime blackouts in 1942 and 1943 |
| Location | One Times Square, New York City |
| Latest Ball Design | Constellation Ball, measuring 12.5 feet in diameter and weighing 12,350 pounds |
| Design Features | 5,280 Waterford Crystal panels and LED light pucks with circular crystals |
| Local Business Involvement | American Metal Spinning, a Holbrook-based company, crafted the aluminum outer shell |
Now Happening on X
- @FoxNews (Nov 25, 2025): Times Square unveils its largest New Year’s Eve ball yet, featuring over 5,000 sparkling handcrafted Waterford crystals and LEDs, doubling the total from last year for a brighter countdown. View on X
- @YahooNews (Dec 31, 2025): The Times Square New Year’s Eve ball is getting a glow-up with a brand-new crystal ball, featuring 5,280 handcrafted Waterford crystals, marking just the ninth redesign since 1907. View on X
- @YahooNews (Dec 29, 2025): A brand-new ball covered with more than 5,000 handcrafted Waterford Crystal discs will ring in 2026 in Times Square, continuing the tradition that began in 1907. View on X
- @CBSNews (Dec 28, 2025): New Yorkers will mark the New Year with a ceremonial dropping of a huge ball in Times Square, now featuring a brand-new design with over 5,000 handcrafted Waterford Crystal discs for 2026. View on X
- @CBSSunday (Dec 28, 2025): Mo Rocca examines the new Constellation Ball for Times Square’s New Year’s Eve, covered with more than 5,000 handcrafted Waterford Crystal discs to ring in 2026, highlighting the tradition since 1907. View on X
- @IrishCentral (Dec 31, 2025): Waterford Crystal has been outfitting New York City’s New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball for more than two decades. View on X
- @AnthonyCumia (Jan 1, 2026): The Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop feels outdated and archaic, like a declining entertainment tradition, as fewer people seem to tune in. View on X
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Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
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