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The most popular celebration to usher in the New Year happens in the USA, at New York’s Times Square.
The countdown to the new year is marked by the slow descent of a large, glittering ball made of crystals located high above Times Square.
Celebrations at New York’s Times Square grew out of a 1904 tradition started by the owner and publisher of the New York Times, who decided to have celebrations from the roof of One Times Square.
In 1907 when fireworks were banned, the idea to drop a ball as the minutes tick towards the new year was born.
Today the ball, also known as "the big Apple" which has become New York’s nickname as well, is a worldwide symbol of the new year.
Also significant among Americans celebrating the new year is the Rose.
Firstly because of a parade called Tournament of the Roses, a tradition which dates back to 1890.
The parade in Pasadena is a colourful celebration with floats, decorated with flowers and plants, taking a 13km route.
The only time the parade is not held on January 1st is when it falls on a Sunday, due to a "never on a Sunday" policy.
Right after the parade another tradition, which began in 1923, is marked - the start of the Rose Bowl College Football Games.
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