This July 4, A Capitol Fourth is celebrating 45 years as America’s national Independence Day tradition, broadcasting live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
Actor and television host Alfonso Ribeiro returns to host in this milestone anniversary event. As the nation celebrates America’s 249th birthday, the evening will feature all-star musical and patriotic performances from pop, country, R&B, classical and gospel artists.
Joined by the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of premier pops conductor Jack Everly, the 2025 edition of America’s biggest birthday party features the greatest display of Independence Day fireworks anywhere in the country, lighting up the iconic D.C. skyline.
“I’m honored to be back hosting the 45th anniversary of A Capitol Fourth,” said Ribeiro. “It’s everything you want in an Independence Day celebration - great music and fantastic fireworks. For me, the best part is always the crowd: so many happy, patriotic faces, from grandparents to little kids. You don’t want to miss this party.”
A Capitol Fourth airs live Friday, July 4, from 8 to 9:30 p.m. E.T. on PBS, as well as to troops serving around the world on American Forces Network. The program will also be streaming on YouTube and here and available as Video on Demand for a limited time only, July 4 to July 18.
The all-star line-up will feature: The Beach Boys; The Temptations; Josh Turner; Lauren Daigle; Trombone Shorty; LOCASH; Yolanda Adams; Abi Carter; and the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of conductor Jack Everly.
The 45th anniversary will also feature: A celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps and the 2.8 million men and women of the nation’s all-volunteer armed forces, culminating in a rousing Armed Forces Medley with the service branch color teams.
Honoring the Greatest Generation to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the end of World War II, paying tribute to the millions of Americans who served the nation in uniform and on the home front, with several of these heroes in attendance.
Thank You and Salute to our First Responders – Fire, Police, EMT and paramedics and emergency health care professionals – in communities around the country.
A stirring rendition of the “1812 Overture” accompanied by live cannon fire provided by the United States Army Presidential Salute Battery, an event tradition, kicks off a musical and fireworks finale.
Also participating in the event will be members of the Armed Forces carrying the State and Territorial Flags, the Armed Forces Color Guard and Service Color Teams provided by the Military District of Washington, D.C., the Choral Arts Society of Washington and Patrick Lundy & The Ministers of Music.