Photo: Getty Images North America
New Year's Eve revelers will be permitted to again gather en masse in Times Square this December 31 to ring in 2022.
Outgoing Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Tuesday that attendees need only bring a valid photo ID and proof that they are fully-vaccinated against COVID-19 to be allowed through security. Since the vaccines are now available to everyone ages 5 and older, the rules apply to children over 5 years old as well.
The mayor signaled that there would be no restrictions on the number of attendees, saying security checkpoints will be adjusted to allow the NYPD to check revelers' documentation. More specific details will be released later this week.
"Everyone come on down," de Blasio said. "We are proud to announce the ball drop, everything, coming back to full strength, hundreds of people there to celebrate. We can finally get back together again. It's going to be amazing."
People who can't get a COVID-19 vaccine due to a disability can still attend, though they must provide proof of a negative PCR test administered within 72 hours of the event. Kids younger than 5 must be accompanied by a vaccinated adult. At this point, kids under 5 do not need proof of a negative test. Masks are mandatory for those who cannot be vaccinated due to age, medical or other approved reasons.
NYC officials just made COVID vaccine boosters available to all adults. The Department of Health is optimistic the city will remain safe from COVID, thanks to the boosters and gradually rising numbers of vaccinated residents.