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This July 4, America's national Independence Day celebration broadcasts live from the West Lawn of the United States Capitol. Hosted by Emmy Award-winning TV personality Tom Bergeron and NPR's Korva Coleman, the event features performances from some of America's best known celebrities and musical artists.
This year's concert stars music legend Barry Manilow, who is back by popular demand following his powerful debut performance on the show in 2009. It also features performances by Candice Glover, the Season 12 winner of American Idol; country music artist Scotty McCreery; actor and singer Darren Criss; classical crossover star Jackie Evancho; Broadway and TV star Megan Hilty; and five-time Academy Award-winner John Williams conducting music from the Oscar-winning film Lincoln with the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of top pops conductor Jack Everly.
In celebration of America's 236th birthday, the show is capped off with a rousing rendition of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" complete with live cannon fire provided by The United States Army Presidential Salute Battery, an audience favorite and now an A Capitol Fourth tradition. Also participating in the event are The Choral Arts Society of Washington, along with The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, the U.S. Air Force Ceremonial Band, members of the Armed Forces carrying the state and territorial flags and the Joint Armed Forces Color Guard provided by the Military District of Washington, D.C.
Twenty cameras stationed at vantage points around D.C., including the U.S. Capitol, the White House, the Washington Monument and across the Potomac River, capture the spectacular fireworks display.