Why the Times Square Ball Will Drop Twice as 2026 Begins — and How to Watch Every Moment
A Historic Twist on America’s Most Watched Countdown
Every year, millions of Americans ring in the New Year by watching the glittering ball descend in Times Square. As 2026 arrives, that familiar ritual is getting an unprecedented upgrade.
The ball will drop at midnight as usual to welcome the New Year. Then, moments later, it will rise and descend again in a symbolic second drop. This rare moment is designed to launch a year-long national celebration marking 250 years since the founding of the United States.
In short, New Year’s Eve 2025 is not just about saying goodbye to one year. It’s about opening the door to a milestone moment in American history.
Read more: When Is the Second Times Square Ball Drop in 2026? Here’s the Exact Date and What to Expect
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| Times Square ball will drop twice as 2026 begins |
Why the Ball Is Dropping Twice
The double drop is intentional and deeply symbolic.
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The first drop marks the official start of 2026, following the classic 60-second countdown watched around the world.
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The second drop serves as a ceremonial kickoff for America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, often referred to as the semiquincentennial.
During the second descent, the ball is expected to glow in red, white, and blue, accompanied by additional music, lighting effects, and confetti. The goal is simple: turn the world’s most famous New Year’s Eve moment into a bridge between celebration and history.
What Makes the 2026 Ball Special
The 2026 version of the Times Square ball is among the most advanced ever built.
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Covered in thousands of crystal panels
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Powered by state-of-the-art LED lighting
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Capable of dynamic color patterns and animations
For the semiquincentennial, designers are leaning into themes of unity, legacy, and national pride, making the ball itself a centerpiece of the anniversary story.
Full Schedule: What to Expect on New Year’s Eve
Here’s a simplified timeline for the night:
Early evening (6:00–10:00 p.m. ET)
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Live performances from major music artists
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Appearances by hosts and special guests
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Opening of broadcast coverage
Late night (11:00 p.m. ET)
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Final performances
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Crowd build-up and pre-countdown segments
Midnight (12:00 a.m. ET)
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Traditional 60-second countdown
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First ball drop welcoming 2026
Immediately after midnight
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Patriotic lighting sequence
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Second symbolic ball drop marking the start of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations
How to Watch the Times Square Ball Drop
You don’t need to be in New York to experience the moment.
Watch on TV
Major U.S. networks traditionally broadcast the event live nationwide, with full coverage starting hours before midnight. Expect commentary, performances, and uninterrupted views of both ball drops.
Watch Online
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Official livestreams from Times Square organizers
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Network websites and apps
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Streaming platforms offering live TV packages
Most streams are free and accessible worldwide, making this one of the most globally viewed live events of the year.
Watching in Person
If you plan to attend in Times Square:
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Arrive early, often before noon
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Expect strict security checks
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Be prepared for cold weather and long waits
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Once you enter a viewing area, re-entry is usually not allowed
A Second Ball Drop in 2026 — Yes, Really
New Year’s Eve isn’t the only time the ball will descend in 2026.
A separate, official ball drop is scheduled for July 3, 2026, the night before Independence Day. This marks the first non-New-Year’s ball drop in the tradition’s long history and underscores the scale of the 250th anniversary celebration.
Why This Moment Matters
The Times Square ball drop has always symbolized hope, renewal, and shared experience. In 2026, it also becomes a reminder of how far the country has come — and a signal that a historic year is just beginning.
For viewers at home, it’s more than a countdown. It’s a rare moment when pop culture, patriotism, and history all meet at midnight.
FAQs
Is this the first time the Times Square ball has dropped twice?
Yes. This is the first time in over a century of ball drop history that a second ceremonial drop is part of the New Year’s Eve event itself.
Will both drops be televised?
Yes. Broadcasters are expected to cover both moments live as part of the official New Year’s Eve programming.
Is the second drop another full 60-second countdown?
No. The first drop follows the traditional countdown. The second is symbolic and shorter, designed as a celebratory moment rather than a reset of the clock.
Why is the U.S. celebrating 250 years in 2026?
The Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776, making 2026 the nation’s 250th anniversary.
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