Moment will feature the Ball lighting up with an America250 design and a cascade of 2,000 pounds of red, white and blue confetti
As the clock strikes midnight in Times Square, America will celebrate turning 250.
America250, the nonpartisan organization charged by Congress with leading the celebration and commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, together with One Times Square and the Times Square Alliance have announced a surprise second post-midnight moment on New Year’s Eve to mark the start of the Semiquincentennial year.
The moment will feature the Ball lighting up with an America250 design and a cascade of 2,000 pounds of red, white and blue confetti.
“Every year in Times Square on New Year’s Eve we unite the crowds cheering in the streets with the millions of people around the country and the world to celebrate one of the most iconic moments together as one,” said Tom Harris, President of the Times Square Alliance. “It’s perfect that this moment will be in partnership with America250 and the very first moment of a year’s worth of moments to celebrate our country’s 250 great years.”
New Year’s Eve will be the start of a year-long partnership that will build to a historic second Times Square Ball Drop to mark the 250th anniversary of the nation’s birth on the eve of the Fourth of July.
“America250 will kick off the Semiquincentennial year on New Year’s Eve in Times Square — the most watched celebration on the planet — signaling that the largest and most inspiring celebration and commemoration in our nation’s history is underway in 2026,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “Our goal is to inspire all 350 million Americans to join in this moment to celebrate our country.”
Historic Second Celebration to Ring In Semiquincentennial Year
For the first time ever, a surprise second ceremonial celebration will follow the traditional midnight countdown, officially welcoming 2026 and the start of the Semiquincentennial year.
At approximately 12:04 a.m. EST, the Times Square Ball will be relit in a red, white and blue America250 design and rise above illuminated “2026” numerals. The moment will include a new video “America Turns 250,” a first-ever post-midnight release of 2,000 pounds of red, white, and blue confetti, and a dynamic pyro finale set to Ray Charles’ rendition of “America the Beautiful.”
This New Year’s Eve moment reflects deep collaboration among America250, One Times Square and the Times Square Alliance.
“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,” said Michael Phillips, President of Jamestown, the owner and operator of One Times Square. “We’re proud to serve as the starting point of this historic year, showcasing the nation’s celebration on a global stage.”
Photo provided.
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