I've heard a few different reasons they drop a ball on new years eve. In 1833, when the British Royal Observatory would drop a lighted ball every day at 1:00 PM. That allowed Captains to synchronize their time pieces.
Another story is that it symbolizes the setting of the sun of the new year.
A different story yet is that it is a symbol of hope.
It's open for interpretation I suppose. Do they do anything for new years where you are from?
[Simon] Thank you for helping with Kat, you and River both.