Overview
- A confetti test on Dec. 29 checked conditions for two releases: about 3,000 pounds at midnight and roughly 2,000 pounds of red, white and blue confetti during the post‑midnight moment around 12:04 a.m.
- The second descent features a relit America250 design, a new America Turns 250 video and a pyrotechnic finale set to Ray Charles’ rendition of America the Beautiful.
- Public guidance sets viewing areas opening at 3 p.m., entry only from Sixth or Eighth Avenue at 45th, 49th, 52nd and 56th streets, with bans on backpacks, alcohol, large bags and umbrellas and no portable restrooms.
- The updated Constellation Ball, unveiled in November with 5,280 Waterford crystals and programmable LEDs, will anchor both the midnight and post‑midnight moments.
- America250 will launch its America Gives service initiative at the stroke of midnight, and organizers have announced a separate Times Square ball drop planned for July 3, 2026.