Get ready to kick off America’s birthday celebration in grand style with a host of patriotic favorites under the stars! Join us for the Star-Spangled Salute as the Houston Symphony takes the Main Stage on Wednesday, July 3 at 8 p.m. Sponsored by ExxonMobil, this free Independence Eve spectacular has been a beloved tradition at The Pavilion for over 30 seasons. No tickets are required for this event, and gates open at 6:30 p.m. with a plethora of pre-show activities.

The symphony will perform a variety of Americana favorites under the baton of conductor Jason Seber, known for his inviting and engaging approach to music both on and off the podium. The evening will also feature tenor Rafael Moras, a rising operatic star whose voice, stage presence, and ability to connect with audiences around the world have captivated many.

Pre-Concert Festivities

Pre-concert activities kick off at 6:30 p.m. in the North and South Plazas. Enjoy an incredible ExxonMobil photo opportunity, souvenir giveaways, visits with patriotic characters, a special art project, The Pavilion Partners Instrument Petting Zoo, and sponsor activations.

Adding to the excitement, The Woodlands Show Chorus, an award-winning a cappella chorus of approximately fifty women from The Woodlands and surrounding communities, will provide pre-show entertainment in front of the Main Stage at 7 p.m. This talented group, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, strives for musical excellence through education, competition, and community involvement.

  

Family-Friendly Fun

Guests are welcome to bring a picnic from home or their favorite restaurant to enjoy in their seat or on the hill. Please note that beverages cannot be brought into The Pavilion and picnics must comply with The Pavilion’s bag size restrictions and/or be in original packaging.

Families are encouraged to enhance their performing arts experience with Mini Pavilion Maestros, a free and exciting program that makes the arts both fun and accessible for kids of all ages. By signing up for Mini Pavilion Maestros, children will receive a special membership lanyard and badge, free reserved seating at all performing arts events, early entry for select shows, a free ticket to Children’s Festival, and other great perks throughout the season. Families can register their children at any of The Pavilion’s performing arts events this season at a special booth located in the North Plaza or online at www.woodlandscenter.org/mini-maestros.

Exclusive Membership: Stage Lighters

Stage Lighters is an exclusive arts membership that provides access to the best of The Pavilion's arts programs while also making the arts accessible to all. In appreciation of an annual gift, Stage Lighters receive special benefits that enhance the arts experience, including reserved seating, access to the Woodforest Bank Club and reserved Gold Lot parking during arts events, special invitations to member-exclusive arts events throughout the season, Pavilion swag, and more. For more information on the Stage Lighters program, please visit www.woodlandscenter.org/mini-maestros.

Connect with The Pavilion

For more information about The Pavilion, please visit our website at www.woodlandscenter.org. Look for The Pavilion on Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube, and Instagram to stay updated on the latest events and happenings.