Where is the best place to stand in time square for new years? -

My family and I are going to NY for New Years to see the ball drop. Yes I know I will need to sit out there all day in the cold and there will be crowds but I am willing. I want to be part of all the action, so where is the best place to stand? Under the Ball or farther back? Also to stand in front of the performance stage do you have to have tickets?

To even see the bandstand you better be there by noon. You can see the countdown and ball drop from way back into the 50 s( the ball is on 42nd st). The last 15 mins is the whole ball of wax, but take your time exiting, there is no where to go anyway. The crowd mentality becomes almost like a mosh pit. Be careful..it is an experience in life though.