Programming Challenge: Create a Countdown Timer with a New Year's Celebration Effect (Dec 31, 2024)

[Jessica Brown]

Objective

Build a countdown timer that counts down to midnight on New Year's Eve. Once the timer hits zero, display a celebratory animation or message.

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Requirements

1. Timer Functionality:

   • The countdown should accurately show the time left (in days, hours, minutes, and seconds) until midnight on New Year’s Eve.

2. User Timezone:

   • Account for the user’s local timezone to ensure accuracy.

3. Celebration Effect:

   • Display a festive animation or message when the timer hits zero (e.g., fireworks, confetti, or a celebratory sound).

4. Language/Framework:

   • Use any programming language or framework. Bonus points for creating a web-based version using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

5. Error Handling:

   • Handle edge cases (e.g., what happens if the timer is accessed after midnight?).

6. Stretch Goals:

   • Allow users to input their own countdown date and time.
   • Include a feature to share the celebration link with friends.
   • Add themed customization (e.g., colors, text styles).

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Example Interaction

Before Midnight:

Countdown to New Year's Eve: 00:02:37:15 (Days:Hours:Minutes:Seconds)

At Midnight:

• The screen displays: 🎉 Happy New Year! 🎉
• Fireworks animation or confetti rains down.

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Submission Instructions

• Share your code and instructions to run it.
• If web-based, provide a link or screenshot of the celebratory moment.