TIMES SQUARE, Manhattan (PIX11) — New Yorkers and people visiting the Big Apple headed to Times Square on Sunday for a unique Super Bowl viewing experience.
The game was shown live on a giant screen. It was a first for Times Square.
Tourists from the Unites States and from outside of the country were among the crowd on Sunday night. Fans watched as the Chiefs beat the Eagles and Rihanna performed at halftime.
“I didn’t make it to New Year’s Eve, but I ‘m here for the Super Bowl,” Jim Young, a Times Square visitor, said.
The game could be seen on an 18,000 square-foot screen at 47th Street and Seventh Avenue in the heart of Times Square, courtesy of TSX Entertainment and the Times Square Alliance.
“It’s amazing we’re here,” Tom Harris, Times Square Alliance president, told PIX11 News. ”When TSX came to us with this idea and Mayor Adams citywide events team and the NYPD said yes we were so happy. I can’t believe it’s game day and we’re here in Times Square.”
Viewers snacked on free hot dogs, soda hot chocolate. Many passing through Times Square were surprise to see anything free in New York City.
“New York needs this,” Nick Holmsten, CEO of TSX Entertainment, told PIX11 News. “It’s a great day in February and everyone can come come and enjoy this show on the big one.”
The game started at 6:30 p.m. ET. For many, the highlight was the halftime show with Rihanna. The audio quality from the downloaded app was spotty, but the delight in the crowd was palpable with joyful outbursts and singalongs.
“We ended up coming here because we have to catch Rihanna,” Equashia Green, a Rihanna fan, told PIX11 News. “I knew she was gonna kill it and I am so excited for her.”
