Miami’s Big Orange Will Not Rise On NYE After Assembly Crew Tests Positive For COVID-19

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For the second year in a row, the Big Orange won’t be counting down to the New Year in downtown Miami.

The Big Orange countdown — often referred to as a “drop” even though the Orange in question rises up the side of the Intercontinental Hotel as the old year makes way for the new — has been canceled again, according to Local10.com.

Steve Carpenter, known around town as Mr. Neon, told Local 10 that he and his staff tested positive for COVID-19 after Christmas.

But even though the Orange won’t make an appearance, for now, the rest of the celebration will continue, with fireworks and a concert with appearances by Willy Chirino, Gente de Zona, Nacho Chacal, and Yotuel.

The party will also be broadcast on América TeVé WJAN-Channel 41 and its affiliates as well as the city of Miami’s YouTube channel starting at 6 p.m. Last year, the entire celebration was canceled due to the COVID pandemic.

It was the first time in three decades Miami rang in a New Year without the iconic Orange.