Experience America’s 250th anniversary from the heart of NoMad, New York City. Set between the iconic Empire State Building and the serene Madison Square Park, Hotel Park Ave NYC offers a refined Manhattan stay in the center of history and celebration.
From landmark moments across the city to the national celebration of a historic milestone, the summer of 2026 will be one to remember.
Celebrate the Semiquincentennial in the city that never sleeps. From a parade of ships in the harbor to the historic Times Square ball drop on July 3rd, there’s something for everyone.
Ball drop America 250
Be part of history in the making with the Semiquincentennial countdown to July 4, 2026. On July 3, Times Square will host a one-of-a-kind Ball Drop Celebration—the first outside of New Year’s Eve—featuring live performances, special exhibits, and citywide experiences in partnership with One Times Square.
Sail 4th 250
The largest-ever flotilla of tall ships from around the world will create an unforgettable show. Sail 4th takes place in the Port of New York & New Jersey over the 4th of July.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sail 4th?
More than 20 massive Class A Tall Ships will parade through New York Harbor, some stretching over 370 feet.
Over 40 U.S. and allied naval vessels will take part in the International Naval Review, only the seventh in U.S. history.
More than 100 aircraft, led by the Blue Angels, will soar overhead in the International Aerial Review.
The night ends with the 50th anniversary of Macy's July 4th Fireworks lighting up the Manhattan skyline.
When is Sail 4th 250?
The event runs July 3–8, 2026, in the Port of New York and New Jersey.
Tall ships will be docked across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and New Jersey with free public access.
How can I get to the Sail 4th festivities?
To travel from Hotel Park Ave NYC to the Sail 4th 250 festivities, you have several convenient options:
Public Transportation: The MTA subway and bus system offers a reliable and efficient way to reach the waterfront, with multiple routes available from Midtown Manhattan.
Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are widely available, though you should expect potential delays due to event-related traffic and road closures.
Citi Bike: Several Citi Bike stations are located within walking distance of the hotel, providing a flexible and scenic way to get to the festivities.
Walking: Depending on your preferred event location along the waterfront, walking is a straightforward and enjoyable option from the hotel.
Is Sail 4th free?
Some events require tickets, but general ship touring is free.
General touring hours are 12pm–4pm most days; VIP/educational/media touring is 9am–11:30am daily.
Is this a family-friendly event?
Children are welcome, but anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. No strollers are allowed on the ships.
Closed-toe shoes are required to board any ship.
Is this a pet-friendly event?
Pets are allowed in some land event areas but not on ships.
Are there paid cruise options?
Guests can celebrate aboard the Grande Mariner, departing from Pier 36 (Lower East Side), for a narrated 2-hour harbor cruise viewing the tall ships with food, an open bar and premium viewing decks.
What is the July 4th ball drop?
For the first time in history, the Times Square Ball will drop outside of New Year's Eve, on July 3, 2026 to mark the countdown to America's 250th Semiquincentennial.
How many times will the ball drop?
The ball will drop eight times, marking midnight in every U.S. time zone, starting with Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands and ending with American Samoa.
When does it start?
The first drop is set for 10:00am, EST on July 3, with the signature NYC countdown happening at 11:59 p.m.
Is the ball drop open to the public?
In-person viewing in Times Square will not be open to the general public. It is a limited, ticketed experience inside One Times Square.
