Christopher Polk/Variety
For 45 years, A Capitol Fourth has served as the definitive soundtrack to America’s Independence Day, broadcasting live from the U.S. Capitol. This beloved PBS tradition has long united the nation’s most celebrated voices for a night of orchestral grandeur and spectacular fireworks.
In honor of the country’s landmark Semiquincentennial, this year’s festivities—dubbed A Capitol Fourth: 250th Weekend Celebration—will launch early on July 3. Executive producer Michael Colbert explains the shift: “With nationwide celebrations spanning the entire country, we wanted to ensure we provided a unique kickoff. While we are moving to the 3rd this year to accommodate a crowded calendar, we look forward to returning to our traditional Fourth of July date next year.”
The star-studded lineup, hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro, features a diverse array of talent, including Chicago, Trace Adkins, Patti LaBelle, Kool & The Gang, Carly Pearce, Alan Jackson, Loren Allred, and Angel Blue. The National Symphony Orchestra will anchor the musical performances, joined by the Broadway ensemble of Just in Time and guest appearances by actors Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna.
“We aim for inclusive programming,” says Colbert. “We begin with a blank slate to curate an eclectic group of artists that reflects the breadth of American music.” While the focus remains on domestic talent, Colbert notes that international collaborators have occasionally joined the celebration to mark the occasion.
Despite the current climate of political polarization, A Capitol Fourth remains steadfastly nonpartisan. “These concerts have been neutral since day one,” Colbert emphasizes. “That will never change. Regardless of political affiliation, the goal is simply to celebrate our nation’s birthday.”
The 250th anniversary also brings a historic change to the finale: the pyrotechnic display will be staged at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, rather than the National Mall. “It is the perfect tribute to our history,” adds Colbert. “George Washington is fundamental to our identity as a nation.”
The concert will air commercial-free on PBS stations starting at 8 p.m. ET, with widespread rebroadcasts scheduled throughout the evening. The event, presented by Boeing, will also be accessible via YouTube and the American Forces Network.
For Colbert, the event is deeply personal. His late father launched the tradition when Colbert was just 12 years old. “I was the kid holding the script and the Diet Coke,” he recalls. Today, he and his wife, Jill Jackson, carry on that legacy, maintaining the event’s reputation for excellence and meticulous timing. “Working with talent like Alfonso Ribeiro is a dream,” says Colbert. “He is a consummate professional who understands the intensity of live television.”
The evening promises unique moments: Trace Adkins will debut his track “American Made,” and Patti LaBelle will offer a rendition of Frank Sinatra’s “The House I Live In.” Despite his ongoing battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, country superstar Alan Jackson has provided a pre-recorded performance of “America the Beautiful,” filmed at the historic Ryman Auditorium.
“I feel an immense sense of gratitude to be at the helm of this tradition,” says Colbert. “It is about celebrating our shared love for the country and for one another. My hope is that the audience dances right along with us.”
