America250: Times Square's Historic Ball Drop Celebration for Independence Day
Times Square's iconic ball drop will make history by descending on a date other than New Year's Eve for the first time, as part of a special Independence Day celebration commemorating America's 250th birthday. The event will feature eight ball drops across all U.S. time zones and territories, starting in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands and concluding in American Samoa. This unique countdown aims to bring Americans together during the nation's semiquincentennial celebration.
The inaugural Giving 4th Broadcast Benefit Show will take place at One Times Square in New York City, featuring performances by Mary J. Blige, Brad Paisley, and NE-YO. The event also launches Giving 4th, a nationwide initiative encouraging support for charitable organizations and community volunteering in honor of America's 250th birthday. The celebration kicks off with the first ball drop at 10 a.m. ET on July 3, marking midnight in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands.
The traditional New Year's Eve countdown in Times Square at 11:59 p.m. ET will serve as the focal point of the nationwide celebration before continuing through the remaining U.S. time zones and territories. The final ball drop is scheduled for 7 a.m. ET on July 4, marking midnight in American Samoa. Viewers can tune in to the Giving 4th Broadcast Benefit Show starting at 9 p.m. ET on July 3, hosted by Jim Gaffigan and streaming on America250.org.
This event signifies a significant moment for the redesigned Times Square ball, which was unveiled during the 2025-26 New Year's Eve celebration following renovations to One Times Square. America250 Chair Rosie Rios emphasized the event's goal of uniting Americans nationwide in celebrating the country's 250th birthday, creating a shared experience that transcends individual cities and moments. The historic Times Square ball drops will be a highlight of this patriotic and festive occasion.