Thousands of people will gather in Times Square for the famed New Year’s Eve ball drop tradition, so long as they show proof of vaccination against COVID-19, officials said November 16, 2021.
Last year’s celebration featured wacky waving inflatables tube men instead of the usual crowds. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said “We want to welcome those hundreds of thousands of folks — but everyone needs to be vaccinated,” the mayor cautioned. “All you need to do is have proof of vaccination and a valid photo ID and you are in.”
December 31, 2021 is Bill Blasio’s last day in office so if there is any fall out for hosting this superspreader, if will fall on the next mayor, Eric Adams. New York is one of the 21 states that have seen steady increase in cases over the last week.
New York State Governor Kathy Hochel tweeted, “COVID numbers are on the rise in regions across the state, including Western New York & the Finger Lakes. We know what needs to be done: more shots in arms, boosters for everyone at risk, and common-sense social distancing & masking measures. Let’s move forward, not back.”