One year, I went there at around 5-6pm and there were already so many people that we were only allowed to walk towards the area via Columbus Circle, which was 17 blocks north. We decided to turn around and just watch the ball drop from the television. If you want to see the ball, either go there a lot earlier or buy a ticket for the T.G.I.Fridays or Olive Garden in Times Square.
If you got there at 7 you ll probably not be let in. people start showing up for this that morning. who is preforming and what not is dependent on who you re nearby. the Entertainment is network specific, since this is a public area no network can have a right to sole coverage.another example, though tied to NBC, ABC and CBS can cover the macy s parade on thanksgiving for same reason, it uses public streets.
you ll be wayyy in the back...i don t even know if you ll find a place to stand in times square by that time. if you want a good place, you ll need to get there no later than 2:30 p.m. and you ll have to stand there all day, because if you don t, someone will immediately take your spot. good luck.