Is National Memorial Day Concert coming back?
National Memorial Day Concert (1989–present) — music · history on PBS
About National Memorial Day Concert
Yes — the National Memorial Day Concert returns on May 24, 2026, on PBS.
This annual event is a live broadcast from the U.S. Capitol that has become a longstanding tradition since its debut in 1989. The concert features patriotic musical performances, documentary footage, and dramatic readings that honor the service and sacrifice of military personnel and their families. It aims to unite the country in remembrance and appreciation, echoing Abraham Lincoln's call to care for those who have borne the battle.
The show is a multi-genre presentation combining music and history, and it has been broadcast every year around Memorial Day. Past episodes have included a mix of performances and tributes, serving as a national moment of reflection and gratitude. The 2026 edition will be hosted by Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise, with a runtime of approximately 90 minutes.
National Memorial Day Concert episode schedule
14 aired
Aired · 14
| Date | Ep. | Title |
|---|---|---|
| May 24, 2026 | S2026·E1 | 37th Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 25, 2025 | S2025·E1 | 36th Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 26, 2024 | S2024·E1 | 35th Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 28, 2023 | S2023·E1 | 34th Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 29, 2022 | S2022·E1 | 33rd Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 30, 2021 | S2021·E1 | 32nd Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 24, 2020 | S2020·E1 | 31st Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 26, 2019 | S2019·E1 | 30th Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 27, 2018 | S2018·E1 | 29th Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 28, 2017 | S2017·E1 | 28th Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 29, 2016 | S2016·E1 | 27th Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 24, 2015 | S2015·E1 | 26th Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 27, 1990 | S1990·E1 | 1st Annual National Memorial Day Concert |
| May 28, 1989 | S1989·E1 | Episode 1 |