Wed Dec 25 20:03:09 UTC 2024: ## Viral Times Square Christmas Blackout Video Debunked: A Year-Old Spectacle Resurfaces

**New York, NY –** A video depicting a sudden blackout in Times Square followed by a spectacular Christmas light show on billboards has gone viral on social media platforms this Christmas Eve. The footage, showing 27 billboards illuminating the nativity story, captivated viewers, sparking widespread praise and debate. However, fact-checking reveals the video is not from Christmas Eve 2024, but rather from November 27, 2023.

The video, originally shared on X, has been circulating widely despite a Community Note highlighting its true date. The 2023 light and sound show, titled “A Silent Night Surprise,” was a production of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) and promoted their “Light of the World Giving Machine” initiative, which provided resources to the needy in New York City. The full show is available to view on YouTube.

While the event didn’t occur this Christmas Eve, the video’s re-emergence sparked overwhelmingly positive reactions online, with many praising the display’s beauty and message. Some users, however, criticized the initiative’s cost, questioning its effectiveness compared to direct charitable aid.

Despite the factual inaccuracy surrounding its timing, the viral video serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of Christmas messaging and the power of social media to spread both uplifting content and misinformation.

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