There will be no crowds flocking to Times Square this New Year’s Eve.
The New Year’s Eve Ball Drop will officially be a virtual event on 31 December.
According to organizers the Times Square Alliance and Countdown Entertainment, it will become ‘a virtually enhanced celebration.’
Just a few people will be there to see it in person made up of a ‘limited group of in-person honorees, socially distanced, who will reflect the themes, challenges and inspirations of 2020.’
There will be limited live entertainment in Times Square but no details have been announced yet.
It marks a big departure from the usual crowded event that is broadcast to millions around the world each year.
Last year, more than one million people gathered at Times Square to watch the ball drop.
"This year there will be significantly new and enhanced virtual, visual and digital offerings to complement whatever limited live entertainment or experiences take place in Times Square," said Tim Tompkins, President of the Times Square Alliance.
Written by Ray Montgomery, US editor
