Press & Media

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Official Countdown 250 Ball, the premier gala launching America's 250th anniversary weekend, will take place on the evening of Friday, July 3, 2026 at the iconic Washington Hilton. The date places the Ball squarely in the middle of the recently announced Great American State Fair, the 16-day Freedom 250 festival running June 25 through July 10 on the National Mall.

The Ball offers Fair visitors, DC-area residents, and out-of-town guests an evening complement to the Fair's daytime programming. Three blocks from the Mall, 3,000 guests will gather in stylish patriotic attire for an extraordinary evening of patriotism, entertainment, and celebration — ending with a signature midnight countdown marking the exact instant America enters its 250th year.

"The Great American State Fair announcement reshapes the landscape for DC visitors planning their 250th anniversary trip," said Mike Harrigan, of the All-American Ball Committee, the event's organizer. "Families and travelers can experience the Fair by day on the Mall, then close out Independence Eve in stylish patriotic attire at the Washington Hilton. It's the pairing a generation has been waiting for."

"Our goal is simple," Harrigan added. "We want every single guest to walk out of the Washington Hilton with the greatest memories of their lives. Every detail — from the entertainment to the midnight countdown to the way we treat our guests — is being designed to deliver an experience that is truly once in a lifetime."

A Carnival of the Senses

The Countdown 250 Ball promises an unparalleled sensory experience spanning the Washington Hilton's grand event spaces, including live entertainment across 4 stages, 6 immersive party zones, a premium open bar all night, roving entertainers and immersive experiences, and a stirring Patriotic Tribute to America honoring 250 years of American history.

The signature moment of the evening will be a breathtaking midnight countdown — not a standard ball drop or balloon release, but a multi-sensory production of patriotic grandeur marking the exact instant America enters its 250th year.

All-American Heroes Lifetime Achievement Awards

A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the All-American Heroes Lifetime Achievement Awards, recognizing extraordinary Americans whose lifetime of service, sacrifice, and leadership embodies the best of the nation. The public is invited to nominate deserving individuals at the event website.

Ticket Information

Three ticket tiers are available — the Liberty Ticket ($225), Patriot VIP Ticket ($450), and the Statesman’s Concierge Pass ($1,700, limited to 200 guests). Hosted Group Tables and formal Host recognition are available for groups of 10 or more Statesman’s guests. Corporate sponsorship and group inquiries are welcomed at CountdownAmerica250@gmail.com. Prices increase in waves as the event approaches.