Memorial Day means a long weekend, picnics, parties and maybe a quick vacation to kick off the summer season. But it’s really about honoring our country’s veterans, servicemen and women and military families. A highlight of Memorial Day each year is a concert in Washington, D.C. honoring the men and women of the U.S. armed forces. The award-winning National Memorial Day Concert has been held for more than 30 years, and broadcast live as an annual television event. The concert features uplifting musical performances, documentary footage and dramatic readings. Celebrities share stories of the nation’s military conflicts and some of the heroes who served, as award-winning musicians and military choirs perform songs in tribute.
When is the National Memorial Day Concert?
The concert will be held Sunday, May 28, 2023 from 8pm to 9:30pm ET.
Where is the National Memorial Day Concert?
The concert is held on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
How can I attend the National Memorial Day Concert?
If you’re in D.C., you can attend the concert in person. It’s free and open to the public, no tickets necessary. Because of traffic and closures, the Metro is the best way to get there. The nearest stations are Federal Center SW (Orange/Blue lines) and Union Station (Red line). Gates open at 5pm.
How can I watch the National Memorial Day Concert this year?
The concert will be broadcast live on PBS stations at 8pm ET/7pm CT. Check your local listings for air time. You can also watch the live stream on the PBS website, on the concert's Facebook page, the PBS YouTube channel or the PBS app. If you miss the live broadcast, most PBS channels will rebroadcast the concert immediately following the live broadcast.
Who is performing at the National Memorial Day Concert?
Appearing at this year’s concert will be Joe Mantegna, Gary Sinise, Mary McCormack, Jack Everly, The National Symphony Orchestra, The Military District of Washington, The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, The U.S. Army Chorus, The U.S. Navy Band Sea Chanters, The U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants, and the Soldier’s Chorus of the United States Army Field Band.