At a Glance
- Two ball drops on New Year’s Eve in Times Square.
- Second drop honors the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
- 2,000 pounds of red, white, and blue confetti will be released.
- Why it matters: It marks a historic celebration and adds patriotic flair to the iconic countdown.
This New Year’s Eve, New Yorkers will see a familiar sight – the iconic Constellation Ball – but with an added twist that celebrates a milestone in American history.
A Double Celebration
The Times Square Alliance, which coordinates the annual ball drop, added a second ball to honor the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. America250, a nonpartisan body created by Congress, partnered with the Alliance to plan the event.
- Second ball drop begins at around 12:04 a.m. EST.
- Design: red, white, and blue.
- Confetti: 2,000 pounds.
- Pyro finale set to Ray Charles’ rendition of “America the Beautiful.”
Quotes from Leaders
Rosie Rios, Chair of America250, said:
> “Our goal is to inspire all 350 million Americans to join in this moment to celebrate our country.”
Tom Harris, President of the Times Square Alliance, added:
> “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. 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.”
Future Ball Drop
The decorated Times Square Ball will also drop again on July 3, 2026, the eve of the nation’s birthday. This marks the first time the Ball drops outside of New Year’s Eve.
Key Takeaways
- Two ball drops will light up Times Square on New Year’s Eve.
- The second drop celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
- 2,000 pounds of confetti and a Ray Charles “America the Beautiful” finale add patriotic flair.
With two glowing balls lighting up the skyline, Times Square will once again be the epicenter of a moment that unites Americans in celebration.
