As the clock strikes midnight tonight, America doesn’t just ring in a new year — we begin the countdown to a historic milestone: 250 years since the birth of the United States of America.
On New Year’s Eve in Washington, D.C., the Washington Monument will stand as the world’s tallest birthday candle, launching a year-long celebration of American independence, strength, and enduring promise. The event marks the first major signature moment of Freedom 250, the national organization announced by President Donald J. Trump to lead America’s semiquincentennial celebration.
A Monumental Start to a Historic Year
Beginning tonight, December 31, 2025, and continuing through January 5, 2026, Americans will witness a six-night projection-mapping spectacle transforming the Washington Monument into a towering canvas of light and history.
Each evening’s presentation will tell the story of the nation’s:
- Discovery and founding
- Expansion and innovation
- Fight for independence
- Enduring future as a free and sovereign nation
Tonight’s opening features a special New Year’s Eve countdown, illuminating the monument as a 250-foot candle to officially welcome America’s 250th year.
Projection Timeline
- New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31): 7:00 PM – 12:06 AM ET
- January 1–5, 2026: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM ET
Location
- Washington Monument
- 2 15th St. NW
- Washington, D.C. 20024
The event is free, open to the public, and unticketed, with viewing available throughout the National Mall.
Reclaiming America’s Story
At a time when American history is too often diminished or distorted, Freedom 250 aims to restore pride in the nation’s founding ideals — liberty, faith, self-government, and opportunity.
“The illumination of the Washington Monument marks the beginning of a momentous year for our nation—250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” said Keith Krach, CEO of Freedom 250. “We invite every American—and every friend of America—to join this historic celebration of the triumph of the American spirit.”
This kickoff event sets the tone for a full slate of national celebrations throughout 2026, highlighting the values that have made America exceptional and resilient across generations.
What Freedom 250 Represents
Freedom 250 is not just an anniversary committee — it is a national call to unity rooted in shared heritage, bringing together:
- Federal, state, and local governments
- Civic and faith-based organizations
- Educational and cultural institutions
- Businesses, philanthropies, and everyday Americans
Its mission is to honor America’s past, strengthen national unity, and inspire the next chapter of American leadership and innovation.
A New Year. A New Chapter.
As fireworks give way to reflection, tonight’s illumination serves as a powerful reminder: America’s story is still being written. Two and a half centuries after brave patriots pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor, the flame of freedom still burns.
From the heart of the nation’s capital, America’s 250th year begins tonight — boldly, proudly, and illuminated for the world to see.
