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A Capitol Fourth 2025 Hosts & Performers Lineup
America’s biggest birthday party is back with an incredible roster of talent that promises to entertain this Independence Day.
A Capitol Fourth returns for its milestone 45th anniversary celebration on Friday, July 4, featuring an impressive lineup of musical legends and contemporary stars performing live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The annual Independence Day tradition will celebrate America’s 249th birthday with performances spanning multiple genres, including pop, country, R&B, classical, and gospel music.
Alfonso Ribeiro returns as host for this special anniversary event. Best known for his iconic role as Carlton Banks on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” Ribeiro has also established himself as a talented television host through his work on “America’s Funniest Home Videos” and “Dancing with the Stars,” which he also won as a contestant.
The star-studded celebration will air live from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. ET on PBS, with additional streaming options available on YouTube and PBS.org. Military personnel serving worldwide can watch the program through the American Forces Network. Viewers who miss the live broadcast can access it on demand from July 4 to July 18, 2025.
Joining Ribeiro for this patriotic extravaganza are some of music’s most celebrated artists, each bringing their unique sound to honor America’s independence. The evening promises to deliver something for every musical taste, backed by the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of premier pops conductor Jack Everly.
Legendary Artists and Rising Stars Take Center Stage for A Capitol Fourt
The performance roster includes iconic, multi-platinum-selling legends The Beach Boys. Despite the recent passing of original songwriter and member Brian Wilson, the group continues under the leadership of original member Mike Love, performing classics like “Surfin’ U.S.A.” and “Good Vibrations.”
Showcasing the legendary Motown sound is The Temptations. The group is now in its seventh decade of performance under the guidance of original member Otis Williams, who remains active in his 80s.
Country music will be featured by Josh Turner, the Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum-selling artist known for his distinctive deep voice and hits like “Long Black Train” and “Your Man.” Joining Turner in the country genre are platinum-selling duo LOCASH.
Gospel and contemporary Christian music take center stage with Yolanda Adams. Adams is a four-time Grammy Award-winning artist often referred to as the “Queen of Contemporary Gospel Music.” Lauren Daigle is also featured, whose crossover success has brought Christian music to mainstream audiences with hits like “You Say.”
New Orleans jazz tradition will be honored through Trombone Shorty (Troy Andrews). The Grammy Award-winning musician, producer, and local icon has become synonymous with the city’s extensive musical heritage. His fusion approach brings traditional jazz to contemporary audiences through collaborations with a diverse range of artists.
Singer-songwriter and Season 22 winner of “American Idol,” Abi Carter, will perform for the first time on the historic stage. She is appearing following the release of her debut album “Ghosts In the Backyard” in November 2024.
Special Tributes and Patriotic Celebrations
Beyond the musical performances, this year’s celebration includes several meaningful tributes that honor America’s history and heroes. The program will feature a special celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps.
It will recognize the 2.8 million men and women who serve in America’s all-volunteer Armed Forces. This tribute will culminate in an Armed Forces Medley performed with the service branch color teams.
A particularly poignant segment will honor the Greatest Generation to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II. This tribute pays respect to the millions of Americans who served the nation both in uniform and on the home front. Several World War II heroes are also expected to attend the celebration.
The evening will also include recognition of first responders – police, fire, EMT, paramedics, and emergency healthcare professionals. This tribute acknowledges their vital role in protecting and caring for communities nationwide.
The celebration will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display as it lights up the Washington, D.C., skyline. The fireworks finale features music from the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” and the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, creating a truly memorable end to the yearly event.
