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Bartlesville is home to the world famous Price Tower designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The mid-century architect was like no other — it is only appropriate that Bartlesville celebrates New Year's Eve in a unique way. For the past 10 New Year's Eves, visitors to the Price Tower get to watch a giant olive fall 15 stories into a seven-foot martini as the clock strikes midnight.

The tower is the only skyscraper built by Wright, and is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage nominee.

Those at the tower also know how to throw a party. According to a media statement, Price Tower Arts Center chairman C.J. “Pete” Silas created the Olive Drop to pay homage to New York Square's famous ball drop, and suited the tower's mid-century heritage. What better symbol of 1950s swagger than a huge martini?

The event, created as part of a larger New Year's Eve party for Phillips Petroleum Employees quickly grew into a spectacle that the city, and then the nation, noticed. The Price Tower Arts Center, the nonprofit organization created to preserve the tower decided to invite everyone to join in the fun. The event is in its 11th year. Two years ago, according to a media statement, the Olive Drop made a top ten list of Most Interesting New Year's Eve Drops in the nation.

Last year, around 500 people attended, with more expected this year.

Starting at 9 p.m. Wednesday, Price Tower will play host to live music, food and a complimentary glass of champagne. Of course, you will also have a front row seat to the final addition on a huge vintage cocktail. To purchase tickets and learn more about the event, visit pricetower.org.

 

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