Counting down to 2025 in Times Square and around the world

TIMES SQUARE (WABC) — The countdown to the New Year’s Eve ball drop has officially commenced and revelers are ready to ring in 2025 in the Crossroads of the World.

Eyewitness News caught up revelers who stopped by Times Square Tuesday morning before the crowds started arriving.

They said they just wanted to take in some of the sights and sounds.

“We just wanted to get in early before the big rush and check out the ball,” said one passerby.

“I stayed here overnight to see some of the craziness, but I don’t plan to come here tonight,” said another. “I’m just here for now. I’m like, it’s empty and safe, I can take a little spin around and then go back and be safe in my room.”

“The feel is incredible,” said a woman who was there with her family. “We were comparing it to London, where we go often. And New York has it way better than London does!”

Streets surrounding Times Square began closing at 4 am on Tuesday.

The entire area of 57th Street to 42nd Street between Sixth and Eighth Avenues is set to be fully restricted by 11 a.m.

Police and organizers will start letting spectators into the “ball drop viewing area” at 3 p.m.

WATCH: Live view of Times Square

Attendees are only allowed to enter the area at certain checkpoints, which include 49th Street, 52nd Street, and 56th Street on both Sixth and Eighth Avenues.

Officials are urging people to leave backpacks, large bags, coolers, chairs, umbrellas and alcohol.

And for those who plan to be at the Crossroads of the World, pack a poncho and rain boots as heavy rain and a chance for thunderstorms is expected. Once a person has filed into the area, they are not allowed to leave and return.

While revelers wait for the ball to drop in New York City, other countries around the world have already ushered in 2025.

Auckland became the first major city to welcome 2025, with thousands of revelers counting down to the new year and cheering at colorful fireworks launched from New Zealand’s tallest structure, Sky Tower, and a spectacular downtown light show.

Fireworks also blasted off the Sydney Harbor Bridge and across the bay as people in Australia rang in the New Year.

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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