NEW : `` It is a big complex operation and you know you always breathe a sigh of relief when it 's over , '' Kelly said . Finally , medal of honor winner start the ball drop . Since 1907 , a ball - drop in the Square has marked the changing of the year . This year , the Square will have lights that will mix to produce hundreds of lights .
NEW : Finally , medal of honor winner start the ball drop . Since 1907 , a ball - drop in the Square has marked the changing of the year . This year , the Square will have lights that will mix to produce hundreds of lights .