Start your July 4th Observances Early with Music

What’s more appropriate for an Independence Day celebration than one featuring the Air National Guard Band of the Southwest?  Also known as the 531st Air Force Band, the group will perform a free concert on the grounds behind the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History in Little Rock, July 2.

The 40-member concert band will bring a repertoire of American selections including Sousa marches, big band jazz, patriotic favorites and Broadway show tunes.  The group plays across the country at military ceremonies, state fairs, community events, military balls and musical festivals.

If you plan on attending the 7 p.m. event, you should bring your own lawn chair or blanket.  You can also bring your own refreshments.  There may be a food vendor on site.  In case of bad weather, the concert will be moved to the Arkansas Arts Center Children’s Theater, also located in MacArthur Park downtown.

Come early and tour the museum before the concert.  You’ll see some fascinating exhibits on the state’s military history.  The museum will also be open during the performance.