New Hampshire has held the first-in-the-nation presidential primaries since 1920. With the first presidential "beauty contest" in 1952, citizens personally met the candidates and by popular ballot declared their preference for their party's nominee. Since 1960, Dixville has been the first community in the state and country to cast its handful of votes in national elections. On election eve, 100% of the eligible voters gather in the Ballot Room of the BALSAMS. At midnight, polls open and a few minutes later promptly close. The results are broadcast around the world.