Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday with Independence Eve Live

Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen are set to host Independence Eve Live on July 3, 2026, at 8 p.m. PT/ET on CNN. This special broadcast commemorates America’s 250th birthday, featuring the historic drop of the Times Square Ball on Independence Eve for the first time. Viewers can stream the event through various platforms that carry CNN.

How to Watch Independence Eve Live

Independence Eve Live will air from July 3 at 8 p.m. PT/ET until July 4 at 12:30 a.m. PT/ET. The broadcast will include the Times Square Ball drop, which will descend eight times, marking midnight across all American time zones. This unique event will feature an array of surprise guests, including celebrities and everyday heroes.

For those looking to stream the event online, here are the available options:

• DirecTV: Offers a five-day free trial, with packages starting at $19.99 per month.
• Sling: Offers plans starting at $4.99, with CNN included in both the Blue and Orange plans.
• Hulu + Live TV: Provides a three-day free trial, with subscriptions starting at $89.99 per month.

What to Expect from the Special Broadcast

Independence Eve Live is part of CNN's broader Celebrating 250 programming, which extends into July 4 with The Fourth in America. This event promises to be a star-studded affair, showcasing a mix of A-list celebrities and cultural icons, all coming together to celebrate America’s milestone.

As Cooper and Cohen guide the festivities, viewers can expect engaging commentary and reflections on the significance of this landmark anniversary, making it a must-watch for fans of both hosts.

Significance of the Independence Eve Live Event

The event marks a significant moment in American television history, as it is the first time the Times Square Ball will drop outside of New Year’s Eve. This innovative approach to celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday reflects the spirit of unity and celebration, inviting Americans from all walks of life to participate in the festivities.

As CNN continues its tradition of live coverage for major events, Independence Eve Live is poised to capture the attention of viewers nationwide. Tune in to witness a celebration like no other.