Edited by: TJVNews.com

As the anticipation for the iconic Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop builds, revelers are willing to open their wallets wide, with some shelling out as much as $650 for a table at Applebee’s and even $12,500 for a luxury couples package at the Marriott Marquis, according to events entrepreneur Joshua Perla, the New York Post reported.

Perla, the founder of events sites BallDrop.com and NewYears.com, has witnessed a surge in demand for the 30 different Times Square packages available. According to the report in the Post, the allure of being in the heart of the action as the clock strikes midnight seems to justify the steep prices for these exclusive experiences.

Among the offerings is a $650 per person seating at one of the two Applebee’s locations in Times Square. While this might seem like a hefty price for a table, it includes more than just the fast-food chain’s usual fare, the Post report said.  Perla notes that attendees are essentially paying for prime real estate in the area and the coveted view of the ball drop.

Evan Lund, a 36-year-old cyber security manager from Loveland, Colo., and his wife Julie, a 36-year-old teacher, shared their positive experience attending Applebee’s New Year’s Eve festivities last year, as was noted in the Post report. They are returning this year with another foreign exchange student they are hosting from Poland, highlighting the appeal of a party suitable for all ages with a live view of the ball drop.

For those seeking a more unique experience, packages range from $499 for entry to the AMC 42nd Street movie theater, converted into a nightlife space with terraces offering sightlines of the Swarovski-encrusted ball, the Post report said. Perla mentioned that this event is limited to 400 people, creating an intimate setting in contrast to the theater’s usual capacity of 1,500 to 2,000.

For those willing to splurge, the Broadway Lounge at the Marriott Marquis offers the “prime couples’ package” at $6,250 per person. According to information provided in the Post report, this lavish deal includes a table with a view of Times Square, an open bar, dinner, and a concert featuring Skip Martin, a former member of Kool & the Gang.

Another upscale option is the R Lounge at the Renaissance New York Times Square, where tickets range from $1,950 to $6,500 per person. As was indicated in the Post report, the latter option promises a front-row “iconic view of the live ball drop and the revelers around you,” creating a memorable and luxurious New Year’s Eve experience.

Restaurant consultant Donny Evans captures the sentiment of some New Yorkers, stating, “Who are these crazy people? They must be out of their minds,” the Post report said. Evans believes those willing to venture to Times Square are likely tourists, emphasizing that the allure of the iconic celebration is lost on seasoned city residents. He adds, “I just think New Year’s Eve is such a rip-off in terms of prices. I wouldn’t go to Times Square on New Year’s Eve. I’d rather have a good meal on the East Side or downtown for a third of the price.”

Indeed, for those seeking an alternative New Year’s Eve experience, the city offers an array of upscale and delectable dining options away from the bustling crowds. As was reported by the Post, Brooklyn’s renowned Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare presents a French and Japanese influenced 13-course tasting menu. .