Dear readers,

I remember the last time we spoke, we talked about my finals and anticipation for the winter break. It’s hard to believe how quickly time flies, as the New Year has arrived. New Year’s Day is a national holiday in the United States. On New Year’s Eve, plenty of celebrations take place around the country.

One major event that occurs here in the United States is the Times Square Ball Drop in New York City, a tradition established in the early 1900s. The Ball Drop is usually part of a larger New Year celebration throughout the city. Throughout the night, many artists and celebrities perform in Times Square, where large crowds gather.

Around midnight, the performances come to a stop as people prepare for the luminous ball, which is made of crystal pieces, to drop. The entire drop lasts a minute, and is completed at the stroke of midnight. The see-through ball shines in various colors, while a countdown is displayed at the top. Many people who don’t mind the cold and crowds attend the celebration in the city and join the countdown. For those who aren’t at the live show, the celebrations are also broadcast on television. The drop is followed by additional performances.

A lot of people make New Year’s resolutions too, by setting goals for the upcoming year at its very beginning. Have you made any New Year’s resolutions yet?

Sincerely,

Bingyin