Freedom Fest at the National Medal of Honor Museum
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Freedom Fest invites visitors to reflect on the values that have shaped our nation since 1776—and the ordinary people who continue to bring those ideals to life through service, character, and action.
Join us for a two-day Independence Day celebration featuring live music, special screenings, classic American food, fireworks viewing, and opportunities to connect with the stories and values that continue to unite and inspire us today.
Museum Hours
- July 4 | 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
- July 5 | 10:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
PLAN YOUR FREEDOM FEST WEEKEND ↓
1st Cavalry Division Band Concert
Experience a live performance by the 1st Cavalry Division Band featuring a mix of traditional military music, vocal performances, and contemporary selections.
Through music and ceremony, this special Independence Day weekend performance honors the service, sacrifice, and enduring spirit that have shaped our nation since its founding.
July 5 | 7:30 p.m.
Upper Museum Terrace (outside)
Presented in partnership with the U.S. Army's 1st Cavalry Division Band.
Fireworks Viewing Party
Celebrate Independence Day weekend with a front-row view of Arlington's annual Light Up Arlington fireworks show above Mark Holtz Lake.
Gather in the Museum's amphitheater for an evening of community, reflection, and summer tradition. Food, water, and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the evening as visitors enjoy the festivities and fireworks display. Seating opens at 5:30 p.m. and is available on a first-come, first-served basis
July 5 | 9:30 p.m.
National Medal of Honor Museum Amphitheater
Step Into the Stories
Before they were Medal of Honor Recipients, they were people—students, neighbors, parents, and friends.
Throughout America's 250-year story, generations of Americans have answered moments that called for courage, integrity, commitment, sacrifice, citizenship, and patriotism. Inside the National Medal of Honor Museum, visitors can hear Recipients share their stories in their own words, explore immersive exhibits, and discover how those values continue to shape our nation today.
As part of Freedom Fest, guests can also experience Foundations of Freedom: 1776 and the Medal of Honor, a limited-time guided tour exploring how the Medal of Honor has helped shape American identity through shared traditions, national symbols, remembrance, sacrifice, and service.
July 4 | 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
July 5 | 10:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
Dine at 1861 Café Restaurant
Continue your Freedom Fest experience with classic American favorites at the 1861 Café Restaurant.
Special menu offerings, including hot dogs and hamburgers, will be available throughout the holiday weekend, providing a convenient place to gather between activities and celebrate Independence Day with family and friends.
Available July 4–5
The Spirit of Service in The American Revolution
Experience a special excerpt from Ken Burns' The American Revolution, exploring how volunteerism, civic engagement, and service have shaped American identity since our nation's founding.
Following the screening, guests are invited to continue the conversation through self-guided activities and reflection experiences in the Lincoln Lobby, considering questions such as, What does service mean to you?
July 5 at 12:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m.
Neel Kearby Theater
Presented in partnership with PBS, KERA, and the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Thank you to our partners!
Freedom Fest is made possible in part through the support of USAA and Choctaw Nation.
Corporate funding for THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was provided by Bank of America. Major funding was provided by The Better Angels Society and its members Jeannie and Jonathan Lavine with the Crimson Lion Foundation; and the Blavatnik Family Foundation. Major funding was also provided by David M. Rubenstein; The Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Family Foundation; Lilly Endowment Inc.; and the following Better Angels Society members: Eric and Wendy Schmidt; Stephen A. Schwarzman; and Kenneth C. Griffin with Griffin Catalyst. Additional support for THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was provided by: The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations; The Pew Charitable Trusts; Gilbert S. Omenn and Martha A. Darling; Park Foundation; and the following Better Angels Society members: Gilchrist and Amy Berg; Perry and Donna Golkin; The Michelson Foundation; Jacqueline B. Mars; Kissick Family Foundation; Diane and Hal Brierley; John H. N. Fisher and Jennifer Caldwell; John and Catherine Debs; The Fullerton Family Charitable Fund; Philip I. Kent; Gail Elden; Deborah and Jon Dawson; David and Susan Kreisman; The McCloskey Family Charitable Trust; Becky and Jim Morgan; Carol and Ned Spieker; Mark A. Tracy; and Paul and Shelley Whyte. THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was made possible, in part, with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
CELEBRATE THE VALUES THAT CONTINUE TO SHAPE AMERICA
From July 4–5, the Museum becomes a place to explore the stories, ideals, and acts of service that have helped define our nation for 250 years. Bring family. Gather with friends. Experience live music, meaningful conversations, and the stories of ordinary Americans whose choices continue to inspire us today.