This year’s Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop will have a special twist as we head into 2026. The celebration won’t just welcome a new year; it will kick off America’s 250th anniversary, known as the Semiquincentennial.
For years, millions have gathered in Times Square to watch the iconic ball drop at midnight. This time, after the countdown, the ball will light up again with a red, white, and blue design to mark the start of the anniversary celebrations. It will rise and drop a second time, showering the crowd with 2,000 pounds of confetti in the same colors.
There will also be a video tribute called “America Turns 250” and a fireworks finale set to Ray Charles’ version of “America the Beautiful.”
Tom Harris, President of the Times Square Alliance, said this moment will unite people in Times Square with those celebrating across the country and around the world.
This double drop isn’t just a one-time event. It kicks off a year-long partnership with America250, which is organizing nationwide celebrations. The Times Square ball will also drop again on July 3, 2026, for the first time ever outside of New Year’s Eve. This will be part of the Fourth of July celebrations and highlight New York City’s role in this national milestone.
Festivities will start early on December 31. The special America250 ball design will be revealed during “The Star-Spangled Banner” at 6:04 p.m. EST. Later, Americans will be invited to join America Gives, a new initiative aimed at making 2026 the biggest year for volunteer service.
