Times Square Ball to be used in July for an America 250th birthday drop

America250, the organization responsible for planning events to honor the United States' 250th anniversary, announced Friday that there will be an unprecedented ball drop in Times Square in July to celebrate the country's birthday. 

The ball drop will take place at the One Times Square building in New York City, and the new drop is in partnership with the Times Square Alliance. The iconic moment will mark the first time the ball has dropped outside of New Years Eve.

America250 said there will also be an unexpected second celebration just after the country rings in the new year next week, which will take place at approximately 12:04 a.m. Eastern. The second celebration will see the ball lit up in red, white and blue and rise above the 2026 sign to prepare for the July 3 drop. 

“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, President of Jamestown, the owner and operator of One Times Square, said. “We’re proud to serve as the starting point of this historic year, showcasing the nation’s celebration on a global stage.”

The New Year's celebration will also showcase a video that officially marks the start of the country's 250th anniversary.

“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,” Tom Harris, President of the Times Square Alliance, said. “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.”

Other events next year include a “Great American State Fair” that will feature exhibits from all 50 states on the National Mall from June 25 to July 10 and an Ultimate Fighting Championship event that will take place at the White House in June.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.