Washington Monument Lights Up for New Year’s Eve: Freedom 250 Kicks Off with Dazzling Projections Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary

Published on December 31, 2025

This New Year’s Eve, the Washington Monument will become a beacon of American history and resilience, as it hosts a spectacular projection show to mark the beginning of Freedom 250, the year-long commemoration leading up to the 250th anniversary of the United States. The event, which runs from December 31, 2025, through January 5, 2026, will feature large-scale projections on the monument that showcase America’s past while looking forward to its future.

This dazzling light show will serve as the official kickoff to Freedom 250, a nationwide celebration commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the triumph of the American spirit. The show will be free and open to the public, offering a unique chance to experience the nation’s history illuminated at one of the most iconic landmarks in the country.

Freedom 250 Launches with Spectacular Projections at the Washington Monument

The Washington Monument’s illuminating projection show will begin on New Year’s Eve, running from 7 p.m. to 12:06 a.m., marking the official start of the Freedom 250 celebrations. This year-long effort will honor the nation’s founding as it counts down to the semicentennial anniversary of the United States in 2026. The projections on the Washington Monument will feature significant moments from American history, including the Declaration of Independence, the country’s resilience, and the achievements that have shaped its future.

The visual spectacle will be accompanied by soaring music and narrative elements that tie the nation’s past with its present, emphasizing the spirit of unity and the ongoing work of building a better nation. The show will be projected on the Monument’s iconic obelisk, allowing for a breathtaking view of America’s 250-year journey.

What to Expect: Viewing Locations and Showtimes for the Washington Monument Projection Show

The projections will be visible to visitors along the National Mall, providing multiple viewing areas for the thousands of people expected to gather in Washington, D.C. for the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early and explore the National Mall’s many landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial, before the show begins.

For those looking for an extended experience, the projections will continue nightly from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. from January 1 through January 5, 2026, offering plenty of opportunities to witness the stunning visual and audio display.

This free, public event not only provides entertainment but also educates attendees on the history of the United States and the freedom that has been integral to its growth over the last 250 years.

A Historic Moment for the Nation: Freedom 250 and the Washington Monument

Keith Krach, CEO of Freedom 250, emphasized the significance of the event. He described the projection show as the “beginning of a momentous year” for the nation. Krach stated that the illumination of the Washington Monument symbolizes a celebration of the triumph of the American spirit and welcomes all Americans and friends of America to join in this historic moment.

As Krach stated, “The illumination of the Washington Monument marks the start of a historic year for our country, and we invite all to witness this visual celebration of our 250-year journey and the spirit that unites us all.”

With 2026 approaching, the Freedom 250 project seeks to engage Americans from all walks of life in reflecting on the country’s remarkable achievements, acknowledging challenges, and building towards a brighter future.

Safer, More Inclusive Celebrations: Viewing, Safety, and Accessibility

The National Park Service (NPS) and other local authorities have worked closely to ensure that the event is safe and accessible to all. There will be increased security measures in place, including crowd management and police presence to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees. Sign language interpreters will be available, and audio guides will be offered for visitors with visual impairments to help enhance the experience. Additionally, there will be more than 20 dedicated entrances to the National Mall to accommodate the expected crowds.

For those planning to attend the projection show, organizers have also advised that public transportation is the most efficient way to get to the event. The Smithsonian Metro station will be the closest, and extra metro trains will be available for easy access to and from the National Mall.

A Bright Start to America’s 250th Year: The Projection Show and What’s Next

As New Year’s Eve 2025 rolls into Washington, D.C., the Washington Monument will serve as a symbol of unity and hope, reminding the world of America’s rich history and unwavering resolve. The Freedom 250 projection show provides a striking introduction to a year that will bring a multitude of events and celebrations across the country, all focused on the semicentennial of the United States in 2026. The projection show is just the beginning of a year filled with opportunities to reflect on America’s past while embracing its future.

For those unable to attend in person, the projections will also be broadcast online and available for streaming, ensuring that people from all over the world can join in the celebration of America’s journey. As Keith Krach said that the year marked a milestone in the nation’s history, and they have invited everyone to be part of it.