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NEW YORK — For the first time in its 117-year history, the iconic Times Square Ball will drop in July instead of New Year’s Eve. The special event celebrates America’s 250th birthday.
The historic countdown will take place on Thursday, July 3, at 11:59 p.m. EDT. It will welcome Independence Day and launch celebrations across the country for the nation’s Semiquincentennial.
A Historic First
The Times Square Ball has symbolized New Year’s Eve since 1907. This summer, organizers will give the famous tradition a patriotic twist for a once-in-a-generation celebration.
Unlike the annual New Year’s Eve event, this celebration will focus on a televised broadcast instead of a large public gathering.
The crystal-covered ball will glow in red, white, and blue as it descends one minute before midnight.
Eight Ball Drops Across America
The celebration will continue long after the first countdown.
Organizers plan to lower the ball eight separate times. Each drop will represent one of the U.S. time zones. The celebration begins in Guam and ends in American Samoa. Every region will enjoy its own ceremonial countdown.
The nationwide schedule highlights unity as America prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence.
What Visitors Should Know
This event will look very different from the annual New Year’s Eve celebration.
Officials will not create an official public viewing area. They also do not expect the massive crowds that usually fill Times Square on December 31.
Instead, television networks and digital platforms will carry most of the celebration.
Fans who want to watch should tune in through participating broadcasters or follow online coverage.
Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday
The July ball drop marks one of the biggest events leading into America’s 250th birthday celebration.
Communities across the country will host parades, concerts, fireworks, historical exhibits, and family events throughout the year.
Watching the famous Times Square Ball descend in July will become a rare moment in American history. Most people will likely never see another event like it.
As the countdown begins on July 3, millions of Americans will celebrate more than Independence Day. They will celebrate 250 years of history, resilience, innovation, and freedom.
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