The new year has arrived in Baghdad, where Iraqis gathered in a downtown shopping neighborhood to light fireworks and celebrate. Some said it was the first time they felt safe enough to welcome the new year outdoors since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion.
Elsewhere, some one million people enjoyed a dazzling fireworks display over the harbor in Sydney. In Tokyo, revelers released balloons as 2008 started, while onlookers in Taipei and Auckland enjoyed fireworks.
But Belgian officials canceled fireworks in Brussels due to the continuing threat of terrorism.
Meanwhile, in New York City, tourists and others are staking out spots along the street in Times Square, hours ahead of the annual dropping of the ball at the famous intersection.
This year will mark the 100th anniversary of the lighted ball dropping in Times Square, welcoming the new year in celebrations packed with partiers. This year, for the first time, the redesigned ball will use energy efficient LED lights.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP and Reuters.
Rate this post:
(No Ratings Yet)
Loading ...
Stumble It!
