MIAMI -- Rock music and anticipation filled the streets of Fort Lauderdale Thursday night as thousands enjoyed the annual Downtown Countdown New Year’s Eve celebration.

The event’s centerpiece, a 700-pound ball covered in lights, hung suspended more than 70 feet above the crowd before its big drop at midnight.

“I think it looks amazing and we are feeling like, are you going to do something with it? Because we are not aware of what you do with the big ball," said Arvind Goyal, a newlywed from India.

After the big midnight drop, the skies filled with fireworks.

“I’ve never seen the fireworks, never been here before, so it’s going to be great to see it," 12-year-old Marcus Haynes said.

To keep the celebration safe as well as sensational there was a strong police presence in the area, which brought the warmth of security to many on an already warm night.

“I feel that we’re very secure, and we’re very nice and warm and toasty here in Fort Lauderdale," Mary Jane Yarri said.

As 2009 turned into 2010, many in the crowd shared hopes and spirits that were high. Nayla Burts, 9, predicted 2010 is going to be "awesome."

Big Orange Rises In Miami

Thousands of spectators filled the streets of downtown Miami to see a gigantic smiling orange rise to the top of the Intercontinental Hotel.

The Big Orange is a South Florida tradition that brings locals and tourists to the area, and its rise Thursday night rang in its 24th year.

On Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, the roadway was shut down to cars and restaurants moved into the streets.

For some, a Miami new year is a tradition, and for others, it is a first-time escape. Tourists from places as far-flung as New Jersey and Ethiopia were celebrating in South Beach on Thursday afternoon.

Extra police officers were on patrol in both Miami and Miami Beach. Officers came in early and stayed late in hopes of keeping the crowds safe.