To watch the ball drop without cable, tune into ABC, CNN, or NBC, which broadcast the event live. You can access these channels with a free over-the-air antenna, free streaming apps like Pluto TV and Tubi, or paid services like YouTube TV.
Watch for free with an over-the-air antenna
If you have a TV with an antenna, you can watch the ball drop on ABC, NBC, CBS, or Fox for free. These networks broadcast the event live with high-quality signals. To get started, plug in your antenna and perform a channel scan on your TV. This will search for all available local channels in your area. Once the scan is complete, tune into the network that is airing the New Year's Eve coverage. This method works for anyone within broadcast range of the network towers and requires no subscription.
Free streaming apps to watch the ball drop
Several free, ad-supported streaming apps carry live feeds of major networks or dedicated event coverage. On Google TV and Android TV, apps like Pluto TV, Tubi, and Plex offer live channels at no charge. To use them, install the respective app on your device. Additionally, Google TV Freeplay is built into Google TV devices, offering hundreds of live channels with no app installation, sign-up, or subscription required. To access Google TV Freeplay, head to the "Live" tab or open the Freeplay app on your Google TV device. Make sure your Google TV software is up to date for Freeplay to work. These options let you watch the ball drop without paying a cent.
Paid live TV streaming services with free trials
Paid streaming services like YouTube TV, Sling TV, and Hulu + Live TV carry ABC or CNN, giving you access to the ball drop. These services often offer free trials, so you can watch the event without committing to a long-term subscription. To use YouTube TV on Google TV, add the Google Account linked to your YouTube TV subscription. To use Sling TV on Google TV, install the Sling TV app and link it to your Google Account. For Hulu + Live TV, check which plans include your local ABC channel. Philo offers 60+ channels and can be used on Google TV by installing the Philo app and adding it to your list of services. These services are ideal if you want to watch fs1 or other channels year-round, but for the ball drop, a free trial is all you need.
Official apps and social media live streams
You can watch the ball drop directly on your phone, tablet, or computer using official apps and social media. The Times Square Ball App provides a live stream straight from Times Square, plus behind-the-scenes footage. The ABC News and NBC apps also offer live coverage of the event. On social media, follow official accounts on YouTube, Facebook, and X (Twitter) for live streams and hashtags. Bookmarking these official streams ensures you never miss the countdown. Simply download the app or follow the official account before the event starts, and you'll have a front-row seat to the celebration.
