As America marks its 248th birthday on July 4, 2024, preparations are in full swing across the country. While many plan outdoor activities, others prefer staying indoors without missing out on the celebrations. Fortunately, numerous TV networks will broadcast parades, fireworks, and other festivities, allowing everyone to join the fun from home. Here’s a comprehensive guide to all the Fourth of July programs.
Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks: When and how to watch
NBC’s Macy’s 4th of July fireworks show will feature musical performances and special guest appearances from Lainey Wilson, Luis Fonsi, Tanner Adell, and The War and Treaty. The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC and will also be available for live streaming on Peacock. The fireworks will showcase unique effects, including silver cascading bursts and strobing comets, and will highlight individuals excelling in sustainability and representing minority groups.
The Fourth in America: When and how to watch
CNN’s “The Fourth in America” will air at 7 p.m. ET/PT on CNN and CNN International, with an online stream available on CNN Max. Hosted by Dana Dash and Boris Sanchez, the show will feature performances by Bebe Rexha, The Kid Laroi, The Killers, The Goo Goo Dolls, Kane Brown, T-Pain, Bleachers, and more. The program will include a patriotic performance by the United States Air Force Band and fireworks displays from cities nationwide, including Boston, Chicago, and Washington, D.C.
A Capitol Fourth: When and how to watch
Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro from the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol, PBS’s “A Capitol Fourth” will feature performances by the National Symphony Orchestra, The Choral Arts Society of Washington, Smokey Robinson, Fantasia, Darren Criss, and others. The broadcast starts at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on PBS.
Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest: When and how to watch
For a unique Fourth of July event, tune into Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on ESPN. The women’s competition airs at 10:45 a.m. ET on ESPN3, while the men’s competition airs at noon on ESPN2, with re-airs at 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. ET on ESPN.
Proud American Franchise: When and how to watch
Fox News’ annual “Proud American Franchise” will air all day on Fox News and stream online. The highlight, “The Big Independence Day Special,” starts at 8 p.m. ET, hosted by Carley Shimkus, Lawrence Jones, Aishah Hasnie, and Johnny Joey Jones. Fireworks displays from Washington, D.C., Bristol, and Point Pleasant, NJ, will be featured, along with Bristol’s historic Independence Day parade and interviews with WWII veterans.
The Price is Right 4th of July Show: When and how to watch
CBS’s “The Price is Right 4th of July Show” airs at 8 p.m. ET/PT, featuring a special performance by 16 airmen musicians from the United States Air Force band “The Band of The Golden West.”
Books That Shaped America: When and how to watch
CSPAN, in partnership with the Library of Congress, will air its “Books That Shaped America Series” all day starting at 8 a.m. ET/PT on CSPAN 2. Highlights include “Common Sense,” “The Federalist,” “Journals of Lewis & Clark,” and more.