For New Year's Eve, Flagstaff, Arizona, celebrates by dropping a large pinecone. This unique tradition draws thousands to downtown Flagstaff each year to witness the descent of the illuminated pinecone.
The Flagstaff Pinecone Drop Tradition
The annual Pinecone Drop in Flagstaff is a beloved and distinctive way that Arizona rings in the New Year. Instead of a traditional ball, the event features a large, brightly lit pinecone that is lowered as the clock ticks down.
This festive event takes place in the heart of downtown Flagstaff and is designed to accommodate different celebrations and time zones. The dropping of the pinecone occurs twice:
- First Drop: At 10:00 p.m. MST (Mountain Standard Time), which aligns with midnight on the U.S. East Coast, allowing revelers to celebrate simultaneously with New York's iconic Ball Drop.
- Second Drop: Precisely at midnight MST, marking the official start of the New Year in Arizona.
A brief fireworks display typically follows each drop, adding to the celebratory atmosphere and punctuating the exciting moment.
Key Aspects of the Pinecone Drop
The Flagstaff Pinecone Drop has become a significant New Year's Eve event, embodying the local culture and natural surroundings of Arizona.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Downtown Flagstaff, Arizona |
| Primary Object | A large, illuminated pinecone |
| Drop Times | Twice: 10:00 p.m. MST (for East Coast midnight) and midnight MST |
| Accompanying Event | Brief fireworks display after each drop |
| Significance | A unique, community-focused New Year's tradition |
This event highlights Flagstaff's connection to its natural environment, as pinecones are abundant in the region, making it a fitting symbol for their New Year's celebration. It offers both locals and visitors a memorable and distinctly Arizonan way to welcome the new year.
