First lady Melania Trump’s office announced Tuesday that it would be partnering with the Hallmark Channel to broadcast the Fourth of July festivities at the White House to televisions across America.
As with past Independence Day celebrations at the White House, President Trump and the first lady will welcome military families for a picnic on the South Lawn. Country music star Sara Evans, pianist Lola Astanova, and former “American Idol” finalists Jonny Brenns and Jax will perform during the 90-minute special. The U.S. Marine Band, the U.S. Navy Band Sea Chanters, and the U.S. Air Force Band’s Max Impact will also make an appearance. Later in the evening, the National Park Service will put on a fireworks display.
“I’m delighted to welcome this new addition to the annual White House July 4th celebration,” the first lady said in a statement. “Americans will be able to tune in from their homes and be part of the festivities. Thank you to the National Park Service, the National Park Foundation, and the event sponsors for helping make this possible.”
The Hallmark Channel will broadcast the event at 8 p.m. The channel also partnered with the White House to broadcast the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony last year.
The National Park Foundation and the Hallmark Channel pitched the White House on televising the event, which in past years has been livestreamed online, Trump’s communications director Stephanie Grisham told the Washington Examiner.
