Washington Monument lit up as US 250th founding celebrations begin

The U.S. kicked off a six-night light show at Washington Monument to celebrate its 250th anniversary, projecting key moments in American history. The festivities included a New Year countdown and fireworks in Washington D.C.

FREEDOM250/Reuters

January 1, 2026

Washington Monument lit up as US 250th founding celebrations begin

Washington Monument lights up to mark U.S. 250th anniversary with six-night historical light show and New Year fireworks.

Reuters

The United States kicked off a six-night light show at Washington D.C.'s iconic Washington Monument on Wednesday, December 31, to mark the nation's founding in 1776 as it celebrates its 250th anniversary.

As part of the New Year’s Eve festivities, a countdown timer was projected on the monument, followed by a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the capital.

The light show will feature projections of key moments in U.S. history on the monument, including the discovery of the continent, the American War of Independence, the Industrial Revolution, and significant events of the 20th century.

-Production: Gabriel Goh, Greg Savoy, Andrea Rodriguez/Reuters