(VOVWORLD) - Countries around the world have geared up preparations for New Year celebrations despite the reemergence of COVID 19, energy shortages, and adverse weather.
 Jakarta prepares for New Year celebration (Photo: Tempco) |
In the US, although deadly blizzards caused serious traffic delays, Americans included their wishes for the new year on pieces of official Times Square New Year's Eve confetti in New York City. Whether it's a personal goal, mishaps they want to forget, or their dreams for the future, these wishes are added to over a ton of confetti that floats down at midnight in Times Square.
 Nearly 200 new Waterford crystals were installed on the New Year's Eve ball in Times Square in New York on Tuesday in preparation for Saturday's celebration to welcome in 2023 (photo: Reuters) |
In Europe, due to inflation and limited energy supply, most countries shorten their lighting time for decorations during the Christmas and New Year Season. Roof top solar panels, blankets and heaters are much sought after as the New Year approaches.
In Asia, Japanese public health services have warned of a re-emerging COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, New Year’s Eve Count Down celebrations in Tokyo’s Shibuya Station have been canceled and a live broadcast of celebration on public screens will shut down one hour before midnight.
In China, despite easing of pandemic restrictions, authorities called for a safe transition against the pandemic ahead of their New Year celebrations.
In Seoul, after three years of pandemic-related setbacks, the traditional bell-ringing ceremony is returning in Bosingak Bell Tower, Gwanghwamun and Dongdaemun Squares with live coverage on TV and social media platforms.
In Indonesia, two of Jakarta’s major streets – Sudirman and Thamrin – will be closed during New Year’s eve on Saturday, December 31, for what the provincial government calls ‘car free night.’ Local authorities asked residents who want to spend their New Year's Eve in the Sudirman-Thamrin area to use public transportation.