A Capitol Fourth

Arts and Music Series

America's favorite Independence Day celebration, A Capitol Fourth, features well-known musical artists and puts viewers front and center for the greatest display of fireworks anywhere in the nation. A Capitol Fourth is broadcast to millions at home and to our troops watching around the world.

Countdown to the Fireworks

4m 59s

Bonfires and illuminations have been a central part of July Fourth since 1777. There is nothing like a fireworks display to bring out your patriotic spirit! Watch this video as we count down to A Capitol Fourth, July 4 at 8pm/ET, only on PBS.

Josh Turner (2012)

3m 41s

Every year, millions of people tune-in to watch America's biggest Independence Day celebration, A Capitol Fourth, broadcast live on PBS. Watch country music star, Josh Turner, perform his hit song "Firecracker" at the star-spangled celebration in 2012.

A Tribute to Wounded Warriors

3m 22s

Singer, songwriter, musician, and winner of the first season of “The Voice,” Javier Colon, thanks the brave men and women of our armed forces who were wounded in action while defending the freedom we enjoy in the United States of America. Watch his tribute performance to our service members, wounded warriors and veterans.

Patriotic Music & Fireworks!

5m 18s

PBS viewers are front and center for the greatest display of fireworks anywhere in the nation during A Capitol Fourth. Enjoy some of America's all-time favorite marches, performed by the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, the U.S. Air Force Ceremonial Brass, the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets accompanied the 56 State and Territorial Flags, and the most spectacular fireworks display in the whole U.S.A.

Fireworks & The 1812 Overture

1m 50s

Each year, "A Capitol Fourth" is capped off with the National Symphony Orchestra's rousing rendition of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" complete with live cannon fire provided by The U.S. Army Presidential Salute Battery and fireworks over the Washington Monument. This audience favorite is now an "A Capitol Fourth" tradition.

Patriotism and John Philip Sousa

54s

The Marine Drum and Bugle Corps perform the "Washington Post March" at the fountain on the West Front of the United States Capitol. What better way to celebrate Americas birthday than with a stirring rendition of John Philip Sousa's popular march?

Elmo Sings Happy Birthday America

1m 35s

Elmo, everyone's favorite Muppet from Sesame Street, sings Happy Birthday to America on a past "A Capitol Fourth" show. Maestro Erich Kunzel, who tragically passed away in 2009, conducted the concert for over twenty years.

Watch Steve Martin Sizzle

13m 18s

On America's biggest birthday party, A Capitol Fourth, Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers perform a remarkable set of bluegrass tunes, including Steve's original song written just for the show. Me and Paul Revere tells the tale of Revere's ride from the point of view of the horse and the Orange Blossom Special is sure to please!

John Williams Lights Up July Fourth

2m 8s

At this year’s “A Capitol Fourth,” legendary composer and conductor John Williams will lead the National Symphony Orchestra in an inspiring performance of his Oscar-nominated original score to the film “Lincoln.” Here he is receiving the National Artistic Achievement Award, honoring his lifetime contribution as one of America’s greatest musical voices.

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