USA TODAY US Edition

5 weird things dropping this New Year’s Eve

Cities’ celebratio­ns feature unique traditions

- Mary Bowerman

The iconic ball in Times Square, N.Y., isn’t the only thing dropping on New Year’s Eve.

Here’s a look at some of the strange items starring in New Year’s celebratio­ns across the country:

Guitar drop in Memphis

Get ready to rock at the Hard Rock Cafe’s 10th annual New Year’s Eve Guitar Drop, where a 10-foot D’Angelico guitar will land at midnight.

PEEPS drop in Bethlehem, Pa.

A 400-pound PEEPS Chick will be dropped in Bethlehem, Pa. The massive PEEPS show is part of the annual PEEPSFEST, hosted by the maker of the treat, Just Born Quality Confection­s.

Possum drop in Brasstown, N.C.

No, this isn’t a joke. For years, Clay’s Corner, a North Carolina convenienc­e store, has lowered a live possum to ring in the new year. Though the convenienc­e store’s owner has retired and closed up shop, the possum drop is still planned.

If it sounds controvers­ial, that’s because it is. Clay’s Corner has faced criticism for using a live animal.

Peach drop in Atlanta

The iconic peach hits the 120-yearold Flatiron Building this year. Since 1989, an 800-pound peach has been lowered to bring in each new year.

Potato drop in Boise

Idaho is proud to be known for potatoes! Each year, a massive potato is lowered at the State Capitol.

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