As the U.S. gears up to celebrate its 250th anniversary, Times Square is set to host the Patriotic Ball Drop and the Independence Day Ball Drop right after the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop.
In a statement from America 250, a bipartisan group established by Congress for organizing celebrations, it was noted that there will be a “second surprise after midnight” ball drop on January 1, 2026, at 12:04 AM.
Subsequently, on July 3, the Times Square Ball will also be “dropped again,” marking a historic moment as it will be the first time this event occurs on a date other than New Year’s Eve.
Rosie Rios, Chair of America 250, mentioned that “America 250 will kick off its semi-quincentenary on New Year’s Eve in Times Square, the most watched celebration on earth, signaling the start of the largest and most significant celebration in our nation’s history for 2026.”
During the second New Year’s Ball Drop, the ball will be “relit with the red, white, and blue America 250 design,” as per the release.
At around 12:04 AM EST, the Times Square Ball will be lit up with a red, white, and blue America 250 design above the numbers “2026.” This moment will also include a video titled “America Turns 250,” along with the release of 2,000 pounds of red, white, and blue confetti and a spectacular pyro display set to a version of Ray Charles’ “America the Beautiful.”
This celebration represents a collaboration between America 250, One Times Square, and the Times Square Alliance, enhancing a partnership that will lead into the semi-quincentenary festivities.
Additionally, it was reported that from December 31, 2025, to January 5, 2026, a nighttime exhibit will project an expansive visual narrative on the Washington Monument to honor the U.S. 250th anniversary.
The commemorative activities will kick off on December 31, 2025, with a countdown that lights up the monument with 250-foot-tall birthday candles, symbolically marking the start of the United States’ next milestone. The exhibit will showcase significant events in American history each night, celebrating from discovery to independence, unity, and future innovations.
In light of the upcoming anniversary, President Donald Trump has also announced plans for the Patriot Games, where the top two high school athletes from each state, both boys and girls, will compete in various sports.
