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A Capitol Fourth: Independence Day concert at the U.S. Capitol
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Photo: Courtesy of George Alexander
America’s premier Independence Day holiday concert, "A Capitol Fourth," is performed each year on the West Lawn of the United States Capitol. The award winning concert features popular artists and the National Symphony Orchestra in a patriotic celebration of America's birthday.
"A Capitol Fourth" is free, open to the public and attended by hundreds of thousands audience members in Washington, D.C. each year. Broadcast live in high definition and commercial-free on PBS and in stereo on National Public Radio, the concert is also enjoyed by millions at home. For American troops overseas, the program is broadcast by the American Forces Radio and Television Network.
The traditional dazzling finale includes an exciting rendition of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" complete with live cannon fire provided by the United States Army Presidential Salute Battery. The evening concludes with a spectacular National Park Service fireworks show over the Washington Monument on the National Mall.
A Capitol Fourth 2009
As announced by PBS, Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Jimmy Smits returns to host the 29th annual performance of "A Capitol fourth." Barry Manilow, who will perform in the event for the first time this year, will open and close the celebration along with Maestro Erich Kunzel and the National Symphony Orchestra with a medley of patriotic classics and popular hits.
Other performers throughout the evening include Aretha Franklin, Natasha Bedingfield, the cast of the Jersey Boys, Michael Feinstein, Andrew von Oeyen, many of the Sesame Street Muppets and the Choral Arts Society of America. The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, The U.S. Army "Old Guard" Fife and Drum Corps, and the Armed Forces Color Guard provided by the Military District of Washington, D.C. will participate as well.
A Capitol Fourth Tips for Visitors
Visitors to Washington, D.C. who are planning to attend the concert should arrive early as lines begin to form well ahead of the specified entry time. Access points to the concert are located at: North Lower Walkway (First and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW); South Lower Walkway (First and Maryland Avenue, SW); North (Senate Side) Air shaft (along the Northwest Drive); South (House Side) Air shaft (along the Southwest Drive).
Security screening is required to enter the grounds, including metal detectors and search of all bags, coolers, backpacks and closed containers. Strollers and folding chairs are permitted and attendees are encouraged bring plenty of drinking water.
Prohibited items include (but are not limited to) bicycles, grills, glass bottles, personal fireworks and weapons of any kind. Also, Washington, D.C. law prohibits the possession of any open containers of alcoholic beverages.
As for all Fourth of July events on or near the National Mall, public transportation is highly recommended. Please note that on July 4, the Smithsonian Metro stop will be closed. The most convenient Metro stations for the concert access gates at the U.S. Capitol are: Capitol South at 355 First Street, SE; Federal Center SW at 401 3rd Street SW and Union Station.
A Capitol Fourth 2009 Details
Date: July 4th
Admission: Free
Location: West Lawn of the United States Capitol
Time: 8 - 9:30 p.m. (Admittance to the West Lawn of the Capitol begins at 3 p.m.)
Airs Live: PBS 8 - 9:30 p.m. ET (Check local listings)
Rehearsal: Many people enjoy attending the rehearsals, which will take place on July 2 and July 3 at 8 p.m. Gates open to the public for rehearsals at 5 p.m.
More Information
PBS "A Capitol Fourth" Website
The National Symphony Orchestra Website
Metro: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
More Washington, D.C. July 4th Events
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