New Yorkers took part in Good Riddance Day, an annual event focused on symbolically letting go of the year’s negative experiences. In Times Square, participants wrote down unwanted memories on slips resembling Broadway tickets, destroyed them, and kept the stubs as a way to mark a fresh start for 2026. The 19th edition of the event, organized by the Times Square Alliance and One Times Square, also provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on the year ahead and set new intentions.
Personal experiences, such as Tamara Litt’s donation of bone marrow to her sister undergoing cancer treatment, were part of the event. Litt’s story, reflecting challenges faced by participants, was shared with ABC7NY. Attendees also symbolically released negative emotions, with Carolina Arias from Florida stating she intended to let go of doubt and fear.
Financial challenges were also highlighted during the event, with Brittney Stokes of Harlem noting debt, and Dana Massey expressing similar concerns, according to CBS News. The symbolic release extended to a variety of personal difficulties, including habitual procrastination and interpersonal conflicts, as noted by attendees such as Jason Anthony of the Bronx and Aaliyah Gutierrez from Salinas, California.
Good Riddance Day also emphasized intentions for the coming year, with participants writing goals for personal growth and family time on confetti. Octavio Najera of Palm Beach, Florida, told CBS News that he aimed to be more ambitious in 2026, while Jesus Najera said he planned to spend more time with his children.
This collective activity takes place ahead of the New Year's Eve celebration, where over a million people are expected in Times Square. This year’s Good Riddance Day provided a symbolic opportunity for participants, including Litt, Stokes, and the Najeras, to mark a transition into 2026. As attention turns to the iconic ball drop, the event represents a public farewell to the past year and a focus on the year ahead.
