What televised Fourth of July concert is held annually on Washington, D.C.’s National Mall?

The televised Fourth of July concert held annually on Washington, D.C.’s National Mall is A Capitol Fourth.

The public concert is staged around Independence Day and traditionally combines live music, patriotic performances, and fireworks. PBS broadcasts the program nationwide, making it one of the most recognizable American Independence Day television events.

The event began in 1981 under the title A Capitol Fourth. Performances have featured major American singers, musicians, military ensembles, and orchestras, with the National Symphony Orchestra frequently involved. The program’s setting near the U.S. Capitol gives it a strong national-celebration context.

A Capitol Fourth is sometimes confused with other Washington celebrations, especially the National Memorial Day Concert, which honors military service in May. It is also distinct from New York City’s Macy’s fireworks, another major but separate Independence Day tradition.