A Capitol Fourth PBS Concert National Mall Washington DC July 3 2026

Celebrate the eve of America's 250th birthday at 'A Capitol Fourth' — the iconic star-studded PBS Independence Day concert on the West Lawn of the US Capitol in Washington, DC, airing live nationally on PBS and free to attend in person on July 3, 2026.
DATE: Friday, July 3, 2026
TIME: 8:00 PM EDT
LOCATION: US Capitol West Lawn, 1 First St SE, Washington, DC 20515
ADMISSION: Free (in-person) | Nationally broadcast live on PBS
WHAT TO EXPECT:
America's most-watched July 4th concert tradition returns for an especially momentous edition — the eve of the nation's 250th birthday. 'A Capitol Fourth' has aired on PBS for over 40 years and draws millions of viewers nationwide while thousands attend in-person on the Capitol's iconic West Lawn. The star-spangled celebration features A-list musical performers from across American musical genres, patriotic orchestral pieces, and a dazzling fireworks display over the Capitol that caps the evening.
HIGHLIGHTS:
• Star-studded lineup of American musical artists
• National Symphony Orchestra performing patriotic classics
• Live national PBS broadcast — watched by millions across America
• Free to attend in-person on the Capitol West Lawn
• Fireworks display over the Capitol dome
• Iconic setting: the US Capitol as the backdrop
TIPS:
• Arrive very early — the lawn fills up 2–3 hours before showtime
• Metro: Capitol South or Union Station stations are the closest stops
• Bring a blanket or low-back chair and a picnic for the pre-show wait
• No large bags or backpacks — security screening at entry
• Can't make it in person? Watch live on PBS starting at 8 PM EDT
A Capitol Fourth on the eve of America's 250th birthday is a once-in-a-generation patriotic concert experience. Tune in at pbs.org/a-capitol-fourth