Dropped into 2017

Claire Myers, Editor In Chief

Every year has to come to a close, but that only means one thing, the start of a new one! Celebrations and parties are planned, and New Year’s Resolutions are made. One of America’s favorite annual events on New Year’s is to watch the ball in Times Square drop during the countdown of the last few seconds of the year.

Beginning in 1907, it has become a tradition for people of America to watch the ball drop in Times Square. Since then, seven different versions of the ball have been made. There have only been two years where this has been an exception, which are 1942 and 1923, and it was because of war occurring at the time.

In 2000, the ball was completely redesigned to celebrate the start of the new millennium. This ball was designed and created by Waterford Crystal and Philips Lighting. In 2007, for the celebration of the 100 year anniversary since the first ball drop, they again, created a brand new ball. People can come and admire the ball from January to December. The ball drop is also viewed by people not just in the United States, but worldwide.

Thousands of people come every year to gather and enjoy this special, once in a lifetime, moment. There’s always a concert beforehand with famous singers and rappers. Families will come and enjoy the many different activities that different groups and sponsors offer. In order to get a good spot to watch the ball, people have to come extremely early to claim their spot.

Even though it is not quite the same as actually being there, watching the ball drop on TV can be quite fun, as well. So, this New Year’s Eve, turn on the TV and enjoy the celebration of the New Year with all the world!