Know Before You Go
Countdown 250 Ball Guest Guide
Washington Hilton · July 3, 2026
For the best experience, we encourage all guests to review the information below before traveling to the Official Countdown 250 Ball.
Quick Actions
Getting Here
Washington Hilton
1919 Connecticut Avenue NW · Washington, DC 20009
Recommended Guest Arrival (Uber, Lyft & Taxi Drop-Off)
For the quickest and most convenient access to the Countdown 250 Ball, rideshare services, taxis, and guest drop-offs should use:
1901 Connecticut Avenue NW
This is the Ballroom Entrance and the recommended guest arrival location.
Parking
Parking at the Washington Hilton is limited and available on a first-come basis.
Washington Hilton Self-Parking
- Open 24 hours
- Approximately $59 plus tax
- Garage entrance: 1998 19th Street NW
- Limited availability
Nearby Alternate Parking
ONE Parking
1666 Connecticut Avenue NW
Approximately $22 flat rate (subject to change).
Metro (Recommended)
Metro is one of the easiest ways to reach the Washington Hilton.
Dupont Circle Station (Red Line) — approximately a four-block walk to the hotel.
U Street Station (Green Line) — approximately 0.9 miles from the hotel.
Metro fares vary; check current fares at wmata.com.
Travel & Traffic Updates
Washington, D.C. will experience significant traffic, road closures, security zones, and increased visitor activity throughout Independence Day weekend.
Guests are encouraged to stay informed by signing up for the District of Columbia’s official AlertDC notifications.
Text
“DC250” to 888-777
to receive free traffic, transit, public safety, and special event updates from the District of Columbia.
Please allow extra travel time when arriving and departing from the event.
Arrival & Check-In
Statesman & Patriot VIP
Early check-in begins at 6:30 PM.
VIP Reception, dinner, premium bars, entertainment, and all VIP services begin promptly at 7:00 PM.
Liberty Admission
Doors open at 9:00 PM.
Entertainment continues until 1:00 AM.
To ensure a smooth arrival, we recommend arriving 30–45 minutes early, particularly during peak arrival times.
Check-In
Please have your Eventbrite ticket ready before arriving at the entrance.
Please have your ticket opened on your phone before reaching the entrance. Cellular service is limited in and around the ballroom — see Cell Service & Connectivity below.
Mobile tickets are recommended, although printed tickets are also accepted.
Guests wishing to consume alcoholic beverages must present a valid government-issued photo ID.
Statesman Pass Holders
Upon entering, ask for a Statesman’s Concierge — a member of our concierge team will meet you at the door.
Your concierge will personally escort you to your reserved seating area and assist you with your arrival.
Dress Code
Stylish Patriotic Summer Attire
Celebrate America’s Independence Eve in style, comfort, and patriotic spirit. With extreme summer temperatures expected, we encourage guests to choose comfortable, weather-appropriate attire while still dressing for a special occasion.
Patriotic colors and attire are always welcome. Summer cocktail attire, lightweight sport coats, dresses, suits, tuxedos, and military dress uniforms are all appropriate. Whether you choose to dress up or dress for comfort, we simply ask that your attire reflect the festive, celebratory spirit of this special occasion.
Most importantly, come ready to celebrate and enjoy an unforgettable evening with us!
Security Information
The safety and comfort of our guests are our highest priorities.
Professional event security will be present throughout the evening to help ensure a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable celebration for everyone.
To help speed entry into the event:
- Security screening is required for all guests. Please allow extra time when arriving.
- All bags are subject to inspection.
- Small purses and handbags are welcome.
- Backpacks, luggage, and oversized bags are not permitted.
- Weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited.
- Illegal drugs or prohibited substances are not permitted.
- Guests who appear visibly intoxicated may be denied admission.
Thank you for helping us create a safe and memorable celebration for everyone.
What to Bring
Please bring:
- Your Eventbrite ticket (mobile or printed)
- A valid government-issued photo ID if you plan to consume alcoholic beverages
- A fully charged mobile phone
- A portable phone charger (strongly recommended)
- Comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the many experiences throughout the evening
Please Leave at Home
Please do not bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Illegal drugs or prohibited substances
- Backpacks
- Luggage
- Oversized bags
- Outside food or beverages
- Professional photography or video equipment without media credentials
- Drones
- Fireworks
- Laser pointers
- Any item deemed unsafe by event security
Cell Service & Connectivity
Cellular service is limited in the Main Ballroom and several other lower-level event spaces.
Please do not rely on cellular service for accessing your ticket after arrival. Download your ticket before coming to the hotel.
Public Wi-Fi is not available for event guests. Bringing a portable phone charger is strongly recommended.
Planning ahead will help ensure a smooth check-in experience.
Photography & Video
Professional photographers and videographers will be covering the event throughout the evening.
By attending Countdown 250, you acknowledge that photographs and video may be taken and used for promotional, marketing, news, documentary, and archival purposes.
Guests are encouraged to capture and share their own experience on social media.
Accessibility
Accessible entrances, elevators, and ADA seating are available.
If you require assistance during the evening, please notify a member of our Guest Services team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave the event and return later?
Yes. Re-entry is permitted; however, you must keep your event credential or admission ticket with you in order to re-enter.
What if I’m running late?
You are welcome to arrive after your admission time. Your ticket remains valid throughout the evening.
Can I purchase tickets at the door?
Tickets may be purchased online until the event begins, subject to availability. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
Is there Will Call?
No. Please bring your Eventbrite ticket with you (mobile or printed).
Can I bring a camera?
Personal photography is welcome. Professional photography and video equipment require media credentials.
What if my phone battery dies?
We recommend bringing a portable phone charger, as charging stations will not be available during the event.
Where should Uber, Lyft, or taxis drop me off?
For the fastest access to the event, use 1901 Connecticut Avenue NW. This is the Ballroom Entrance and the recommended guest drop-off location.
What if I have questions when I arrive?
Guest Services, Statesman Concierges, hotel staff, and event volunteers will be available throughout the evening to assist you.
Can’t Attend or Want to Follow the Celebration?
The Platform Magazine is our official media partner and will be providing live coverage, interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and updates throughout the Countdown 250 Ball.
Follow along live
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We Look Forward to Welcoming You
Thank you for joining us for the Official Countdown 250 Ball as we celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary.
We wish you safe travels and look forward to sharing an unforgettable Independence Eve celebration with you on July 3, 2026.