Schenectady, New York (Vocus/PRWEB) December 13, 2010

While most U.S. residents are familiar with the annual time ball drop in Times Square, cities across the nation will ring in the New Year with their own versions of the countdown. Some use balls, others fruit to welcome in 2011. The “ball drop” varies, based on location, but each region of the country seems to have a special way of commemorating the holiday. BestTravelDeals.net has created a round-up of New Year’s Eve 2010 celebrations from coast to coast, paired with fantastic New Year’s travel deals and hotel accommodations to ensure a great start for the New Year.

The New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square is a tradition that millions have been experiencing since 1907. Though there have been several balls dropped from the location at One Times Square throughout the years, the current ball (introduced in 2008) is bigger and better than ever. The 12 foot geodesic sphere weighs 11,875 pounds, and is a sight to see, not just when it’s descending on NYE, but all year round, as a popular symbol of New York City. Once again, the ball will begin to drop at 11:59 p.m. on December 31, 2010, with nearly a million spectators watching from below, and millions more watching the televised event from their homes. Once the clock strikes Midnight, the crowd will be doused in one ton of confetti! The event is completely free of charge, but book your reservations soon to ensure convenient accommodations. New York Guest has put together an incredible New Year’s Eve travel package at select Times Square hotels. Starting at $ 655, guests will receive five nights in a 4-star NYC hotel, roundtrip airport transfers from LaGuardia, JFK or Newark Airports, 24-hour double-decker sightseeing tours, and tickets to an exclusive NYE party!

Hailed as the largest New Year’s Eve celebration in the Southeast, Atlanta’s Peach Drop is the second most attended NYE countdown, next to the ball drop in Times Square. Held each year on December 31, the Peach Drop attracts more than 100,000 people to its location at Underground Atlanta (50 Upper Alabama Street SW). Suspended 138 feet up in the air, the 800-pound peach replica will wait until 11:59 p.m. to be dropped, and will of course be followed by fireworks and confetti. Live entertainment, children’s activities and more make this annual event fun for the whole family. Those seeking affordable accommodations can save 50% on their two night stay at W. Atlanta Hotel. Book by December 31.

As is tradition in South Florida, Miami hosts the annual “Orange Drop” at the Hotel InterContinental Miami (100 Chopin Plaza) on December 31. Instead of descending, the neon orange actually rises to the top of the hotel, until it reaches its destination at the stroke of Midnight. A fireworks display and laser show follows the drop. Don’t miss live bands at the scenic Bayfront Park outside the hotel. For accommodations, visit the Hotel InterContinental Miami online, or save a little money by staying at the Tropics Hotel, featuring rates starting at $ 69.

Mardi Gras isn’t the only time to get a good pot of gumbo in New Orleans. In fact, the local cuisine is celebrated even more so on NYE with the annual Gumbo Pot Drop on December 31. Jackson Square is the place to be, as locals and tourists gather for a good old fashioned New Year’s Eve street party starting at 9 p.m. Live music, fireworks over the Mississippi River, and plenty of food and librations to follow the Gumbo Pot Drop at Midnight. For accommodations, check out our selection of New Orleans hotel deals, featuring 40% off discounts.

From Pittsburgh’s ball drop (made out of recycled materials) to Raleigh, North Carolina’s 900 pound brass acorn drop, more traditional and non-traditional New Year’s Eve celebrations can be found in nearly every state. Discover the closest one, or let our New Year’s Travel Deals be your guide. For more information on the deals listed above view our video.

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