Lights, Culture, and History

The area fell into decline, filled with adult theaters, crime, and drugs. Many New Yorkers avoided Times Square entirely. Mayor Rudy Giuliani spearheaded a cleanup campaign, pushing out adult entertainment businesses, restoring theaters, and inviting global corporations (like Disney and Coca-Cola) to set up bright, family-friendly billboards. Times Square is considered a symbol of urban renewal, though some argue it has also become overly commercialized.

The most famous Times Square event, watched by over a billion people worldwide every year. The crystal ball weighs nearly 6 tons and is covered in more than 2,600 crystal triangles. Street fairs and outdoor performances promote Broadway shows. Times Square often hosts art installations, yoga sessions, and public concerts. In short, Times Square represents the very soul of New York City — chaotic, colorful, crowded, and unforgettable.

September 7, 2025 | 12:03 am