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(The Hill) – As America gears up for its 250th anniversary next year, the organizing committee revealed on Friday an exciting addition to the festivities: the iconic Times Square Ball in New York City will be a focal point of celebrations both on New Year’s Eve and in July.
America250 shared that the famous ball, renowned for drawing throngs of visitors each year as it marks the countdown to midnight, will be illuminated in patriotic colors of red, white, and blue after its descent. Once the clock strikes midnight, the ball will ascend above a “2026” display, and a shower of red, white, and blue confetti will cascade over the city at around 12:04 a.m. as New York welcomes the New Year.
The ball will feature again in a celebration on July 3 to ring in Independence Day festivities. That ball drop will mark the first time the Times Square Ball has dropped outside of New Year’s Eve, the America250 committee said.
“One Times Square has long been a place where the world comes together to celebrate pivotal moments — from the end of World War II to the moon landing,” Michael Phillips, head of the company that owns and operates One Times Square, said in a statement. “We’re proud to serve as the starting point of this historic year, showcasing the nation’s celebration on a global stage.”
The Trump administration has for months been touting the planned celebrations for next year to mark 250 years since America’s independence.
Other events include a “Great American State Fair” that will feature exhibits from all 50 states on the National Mall from June 25-July 10; an Independence Day celebration that will include fireworks and a military flyover; and an Ultimate Fighting Championship event that will take place at the White House on June 14.
