travel
where will you be when the
If you want to do something more than just hang out in your parents' basement this New Year's Eve, check out these exotic locales.
ball drops? ILLUSTRATIONS BY LANCE MENELEY
TIMES COUNTDOWN
5. .. 4... 3... 2... 1! At some point in time, we have all counted down and had our eyes glued to the television on January 31st, watching the pristine Waterford Crystal ball descend from the sky. The New Year's Eve celebration at Times Square has been a tradition since 1904, so there is no better time than now to head to New York City and experience the festivities for yourself. This year marks the 100-year anniversary of the event and it is estimated that more than 500,000 people will make the journey to the intersection of Broadway Avenue and 43rd Street. Remember, arriving early to secure your spot is a must and alcohol is not allowed and will be confiscated by police.
If you do want to drink some bubbly, consider going to the New Year's celebration at Planet Hollywood, located at Broadway Avenue and 45th Street in the heart of Times Square. The party features a balloon drop at midnight, the Times Square ball drop broadcasted on
16 projection screen televisions, an open bar and music that will suit anyone's taste. Three ticket packages are offered from $150 to $350 per person and can be purchased at www.newyearscelebration.com.
If your goal is to be healthier in 2004, then celebrate New Year's Eve by participating in the Runner's World Midnight Run. For the past 25 years,
people have traded in their dancing shoes for running shoes and participated in the four-mile race through Central Park. The event begins at 10 p.m. with a masquerade parade and costume contest, followed by a
and dancing at 11 p.m. and the race, along with fireworks, culminating the evening at midnight. The entry fee before Dec.16 is $25, from Dec.17 to 30 is $30 and on race day is $35. For more information and to register, visit www.nyrrc.org/race/2003 /r1231x00.htm.
—Erica Brittain
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jayplay
thursday. december 4, 2003