Times Square and New Year's Eve Ball Drop

[tangents]

Hello All,

I plan to finally go see the ball drop in person tommorow in Time's Square. Except since this is my first time, I would love to get some tips from people who have done it in the past. My main question is, how early do I need to get there so that I get a decent view of the drop. Also what did you guys do while waiting for midnight? I would go check out a few stores but I don't wanna loose my "place" standing.

Thanks

[BPC]

Citysearch says 4-5 am.

[Edward]

noon

[macreator]

Here's some more information including mentions of what items you can't bring with you:

http://nyc.gov/html/misc/html/new_years.html