Beijing counts down to New Year

Beijing will hold a unique New Year countdown by lighting a gigantic ball at the China Millennium Monument.

A group of spot lights will be used to create a colossal pillar of light. Dubbed the "Light of Beijing", the ceremony will begin at 11:30 pm on New Year's Eve.

The lights will change color, but will turn white when the New Year arrives, projecting a pillar of light into the sky. Beijing's countdown will be broadcast live in China with pictures beamed around the world.