Aviva Fried / Photo credit: David Dee Delgado / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP
Like every year, a million people will gather this evening on December 31 in Times Square to attend the traditional Ball Drop. A moment of jubilation, but which could be spoiled by the presence of spoilsport. Faced with this possibility, elected officials and police officers are organizing to ensure the security of this legendary place.
In many cities around the world, the transition to the new year will also be a security challenge. This will be the case on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, but also on the legendary Times Square in New York. Protesters could come and spoil the party during the traditional Ball Drop, followed live by millions of Americans. It’s a very New York tradition to come and say goodbye to the past year and welcome the new year in Times Square.
The highlight of the show is obviously the gigantic disco ball. This year, it weighs more than five tons and is covered in crystal triangles, 2,688 of them to be precise. At 11:59 p.m., it will begin to descend along a mast. A descent which will end at midnight sharp, accompanied of course by the traditional countdown. On site, we expect 1 million people. A security headache, especially since this year, pro-Palestinian demonstrations could disrupt the festivities.
“The police are ready for anything”
In any case, this is what Eric Adams, the mayor of New York, fears. “We are convinced that there will be attempts to use the event to voice certain concerns that people may have. The police are ready for anything,” assures the elected official.
The police have pulled out all the stops. Anti-terrorist brigade, patrol with dogs, overflights by drones and helicopters… Nothing is left to chance. “We are ready, whatever the number, we are ready for different groups, in different places. We will ensure that the event takes place in a safe and peaceful manner”, insists John Hart, of the intelligence service and the anti-terrorism of the New York police.
New York intends to start the year 2024 without letting anyone spoil the party.