100 days until America250: Five host cities unveiled for July 4 celebrations

America250, the entity tasked by Congress with marking the United States’ semiquincentennial, on Thursday revealed further details about its sweeping plans to celebrate the milestone. 

America250 chairwoman Rosie Rios launched the official 100-day countdown to July 4, and said the organization is creating “the largest synchronized Fourth of July celebration in U.S. history” through block party events planned throughout the country. America250 unveiled five major host cities to host the initiative, promising more to come as the anniversary looms. 

“This commission has laid out the foundation for what promises to be the largest and most inspiring celebration and commemoration in our nation’s history,” Rios told reporters. 

In New York City, residents will witness the ball drop in Times Square at 11:59 p.m. on July 3, the first time it has ever done so outside of New Year’s Eve. The custom-made ball will be illuminated with crystals representing ideals outlined in the