Crowds gather in Times Square ahead of annual NYE ball drop Crowds gather in New York City's Times Square to celebrate New Years Eve as reporters and crews rehearse their programs, giving those who came early a first glimpse at tonight's featured musical artists. The police maintain a strong presence, backpacks and even umbrellas are banned from the Time Square area. Nearby Subway stops are closed as the police and others set up their command posts nearby. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES