China News Service, September 25. According to a report from the US Chinese website, officials in New York City recently announced a major change in the New Year's Eve activities in Times Square.
Affected by the new crown epidemic, for the first time in 114 years, the public will not be allowed to watch the New Year's Eve activities. The crystal ball dropping ceremony will be held as usual, but mainly for TV broadcast.
Data map: On December 31, 2019 local time, the New Year's Eve celebration was held in Times Square, New York, USA.
Photo by China News Agency reporter Liao Pan
"The thing that will never change is the passage of time and the arrival of the New Year at midnight on December 31." Times Square Alliance Chairman Tompkins said in a press release, "But this year, Times Square will launch a large number of new and enhanced Virtual, visual and digital programming to complement limited live entertainment or experience."
Tompkins added that at that time, Times Square will be cordoned off by the New York Police Department, there will be no gatherings of the public, and some activities will be carried out under the premise of maintaining social distance.
He stated that any events held there will be solely for "television purposes."
The specific activities that will be carried out on site have yet to be determined.
However, the press release also stated that there will be "a very limited number of guests present in person, social distancing will be implemented, and they will reflect the themes, challenges and incentives of 2020."
The Mayor of New York, De Blasio, praised the organizers for creating "a safe, creative and innovative way to allow us all to continue to celebrate the traditions of this century."