Metro
SpotHero
Lime
An Iconic Springtime Celebration
Ticket Options
Telecast (East End) Seating – $45
Located between 7th and 9th Streets NW along Constitution Ave, NW by the National Archives
Finale (West End) – Performance Zone Seating – $34
Finale (West End) – Seating – $28
Terms and Conditions:
2026 PERFORMERS
Anastacia McCleskey
Anastacia McCleskey - is an award winning actor, singer, writer southern girl from Nashville, Tennessee who has been a sharing her gifts with the world since she was ten years old. She recently played Carol Evans in the Hit Broadway Musical BOOP! and as Mary Church Terrell in the Tony Award winning Musical SUFFS. Other Broadway shows such as Waitress as the Zaney Nurse Norma (Streaming on HBO MAX) , Dottie in the revival of Caroline or Change, an Original DIVA in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Abraham Lincoln in Hair, Book of Mormon, Violet, and Tarzan. Starred on the West End in Close to You. Regional Favorites: Mighty Real, a Fabulous Sylvester Musical: Izora Rhodes/Choreographer , Joanne:RENT & Celie:The Color Purple @ The Muny [Best Performer - Musical - The St. Louis Theater Circle], Thalia: Muse in Disney’s Hercules @ Paper Mill, Trixie/Eddie:PTC’s The Tattooed Ladies, NY Times Critic pick Ain’t Misbehavin’ @ Barrington, JO in Aft erwords @ The 5th Ave, Sophie, Mrs. Greer, & Perkins in ANNIE LIVE - NBC. Recurring - NBC’s New Amsterdam as Dr. Phylicia Elder & The Good Fight as Opal. Other TV/Movies include Daredevil, Public Morals, Madam Secretary, Release, and Sex and the City 2. #h ellobeautifulspirits Podcast coming soon
Anita Ward
Anita Ward, a Memphis native, rose from a shy Rust College student and substitute teacher to global fame with her 1979 hit “Ring My Bell,” which sold over 10 million copies and topped charts worldwide. Discovered by Frederick Knight, she toured internationally and appeared on major TV shows. After a break from music, she returned in 1995, performing globally alongside top disco artists and continuing her career with renewed passion and confidence. Anita has performed on stage with Grace Jones, The Village People, Gloria Gaynor, Thelma Houston, Chic, Martha Wash, and many other talented stars. She just recently in August, 2003 completed a tour called “Get Up And Dance” with stars such as K C & The Sunshine Band, The Trammps, Maxine Nightingale and many others. The concert tour included cities in the United States and Canada. Although she’s now a full-time wife, Associate Manager, and mother, the music in her will never die. Now that the Sounds of the 70’s is celebrating its rebirth, Anita is resurging as well. “Today when I sing...., I’m going out there with alot more fire and determination, because now I’ve truly lived the songs I sing,” said Anita.
Betty Maxwell
Betty Maxwell is a multifaceted performer, speaker, and former Miss America who continues to captivate audiences around the world with her voice, charisma, and versatility. During her reign, Betty became the most booked Miss America in recent history, gracing red carpets, presenting at major award shows, performing with symphony orchestras, and delivering keynote speeches nationwide. As the National Goodwill Ambassador for Ch ildren’s Miracle Network Hospitals, she championed children’s health while also touring internationally with the USO, performing for American troops in eight countries — including Baghdad and Kuwait. A woman of many talents, Betty is a signed voice actor, pu blished author, actress, model, and above all, a professional singer. She rose to viral fame on TikTok for her powerhouse vocals and uncanny impressions, amassing over 2 million followers across her platforms. Today, Betty continues to tour the country, wo wing audiences with her genre - spanning performances. You can find her on social media as a content creator, sharing her viral impressions and singing for her millions of fans. She resides by the beach in Jupiter, Florida, with her husband/best friend Spenc er, their brand new baby boy Solomon and their two teacup Yorkies, Moose and Batman — all without whose love and support, none of this would be possible.
Club Nouveau
Club Nouveau is an R&B - pop band that was formed by record producer/performer Jay King in 1986 in Sacramento, California, subsequent to the breakup of the Timex Social Club. The group was signed by Warner Bros. Records, on which Club Nouveau released its first three albums. Club Nouveau was nominated for two Grammy’s (song of the year – Lean On Me & best new act). Club Nouveau’s version of “Lean on Me” won a Grammy award, and was nominated for two American music awards, nominated and won a Bammy award, nominated and won a BRE Drummer award, Nominated and won two Narm awards, nominated and won a Bay Area Star award. As of 2022, the c urrent Club Nouveau roster consists of Jay King, Antrice Young, and J Ali and this trio is now in the studio, working on new material, in between their current tour schedule. Their latest single "It's Alright" released in February of 2024 rose to #27 on the billboard urban charts. Club Nouveau is set to release its next single in the first part of 2025.
Cyniah Elise
Cyniah Elise is a powerhouse vocalist, electrifying dancer, and rising star whose artistry continues to captivate audiences across the country in the 50 th Anniversary National Tour of the Legendary Hit Broadway Musical The Wiz. At any given time, you will see her thrilling audiences in the Ensemble or as the u/s of Dorothy ad Glinda The Good Witch in the timeless Tony Award winning production. She first stepped into the national spotlight in 2020 on American Idol , where her soul ful voice and commanding presence quickly captured the hearts of viewers nationwide and introduced the world to her undeniable star power. Rooted in a lifelong love of music and performance, Cyniah’s journey began in church and community stages where she d eveloped the rich vocal depth and emotional storytelling that define her performances today. With a voice that soars and a stage presence that radiates confidence and warmth, she brings both heart and brilliance to every role she inhabits. Her regional the atre credits include The Wiz , A Chorus Line , Hairspray , Dreamgirls , A Song for Adaeze , and The Preacher’s Wife: The Musical . Whether delivering powerhouse vocals or bringing vibrant characters to life through dance and storytelling, Cyniah continues to est ablish herself as an exciting and versatile force in musical theatre. Cyniah is deeply grateful for the mentors, family, and supporters who have championed her journey, and she is thrilled to share this stage with such a talented company. Follow her journe y at @cyniah.elise
David Archuleta
Since first stepping into the pop spotlight at age 17, David Archuleta has embodied the kind of genuine star power that can’t be manufactured. After years of dazzling audiences with his radiant personality and phenomenal voice—a journey that’s included turning out multiple platinum-selling hits, achieving global acclaim as a captivating live performer, and emerging as an undeniable fixture on the pop-culture scene—the Miami-born singer/songwriter experienced a major personal transformation that radically altered his identity as an artist. As shown in his recent singles “Crème Brulée” and “Hell Together,” Archuleta has dramatically expanded the landscape of his songwriting and devoted himself to making pop music with equal parts uncompromising emotion and exhilarating impact.
Over the next several months David will reveal more new music, he notes that uncovering his most authentic voice has involved finding self-assurance in unexpected places. “Growing up in the church, I was taught to stand up for my beliefs and share them with the world, which is exactly what I’m trying to do with my music,” he says. “Even though I stand for something else now, I still have that same level of conviction in what I do. I believe in being bold in my vulnerability and speaking the truth of who I am, so that hopefully people can come away from my songs feeling like they understand themselves, or others, or just life in general a little better than they did before.”
Gabby Samone
Gabby Samone is a Baltimore, MD born vocalist wh ose powerful voice and emotive delivery are rooted in gospel, R&B, and classic soul. Raised in a musically gifted family, she discovered her passion for singing in her church choir, where early immersion in gospel harmonies helped shape the vocal control, range, and depth that define her artistry today. Gabby first captured widespread attention through viral reinterpretations of R&B classics, including her rendition of Mariah Carey’s “My All,” which sparked the #MyAllChallenge on TikTok. These performances introduced her to a global audience and earned recognition from music and entertainment icons such as Jennifer Hudson, Fantasia Barrino, J. Cole, Jhené Aiko, Missy Elliott, Brandy, SWV, XSCAPE, and Mariah Carey herself. As her visibility grew, Gabby transi tioned from viral success to major live and theatrical stages. She opened for R&B legends Keke Wyatt and Kelly Price, performed at the historic Apollo Theater alongside Grammy - winning musical director Adam Blackstone, and made her major theatrical debut in Dreamgirls . Her versatility was further showcased when Disney selected her to recreate and perform “Go the Distance” from the animated classic Hercules . Gabby’s national profile continued to rise with her television debut on The Jennifer Hudson Show , followed by a standout run as a finalist on Season 23 of American Idol . In 2025, she reached new audiences with a performance featured during NFL Sunday Night Football and a guest appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show top of 2026 , solidifying her presenc e across music, television, and live entertainment. Now entering the next chapter of her career, Gabby Samone brings her rich musical lineage, contemporary perspective, and undeniable vocal presence into original music. With each performance, she carries t he voices of her family, her community, and her generation positioning herself as a defining artist with a sound that honors tradition while pushing forward.
Raheem DeVaughn
Raheem DeVaughn, a masterful architect of soul music, has continuously ascended the ranks of artistic brilliance. This Grammy Award Winning phenomenon isn't just a singer; he's a platinum songwriter, host of the Original Quiet Storm on WHUR FM, a passionate health and human rights activist, and a luminary in the realm of R&B. His unwavering commitment to his craft and his fans shines brightly in every soul-stirring melody he creates, offering a consistent stream of music that resonates deeply with a diverse audience. As the founder of the LoveLife Foundation, DeVaughn demonstrates his deep-seated dedication to enhancing the physical, mental, and economic well-being of underserved communities of color. His advocacy extends beyond music, earning him prestigious recognitions such as the Biden Administration 2023 Presidential Volunteer Award and the Key to the City of Washington D.C. for his impactful work in HIV/AIDS awareness. DeVaughn’s influence in the music industry is undeniable. Crowned as the #1 independent artist on the radio in 2019, he has crafted a unique space for himself, especially among Black women aged 24-54, who find a voice in his melodies. In 2024, he participated as a panelist on the White House Mental Health Summit & performed at the White House as part of the Juneteenth celebration alongside greats such as Patti LaBelle, Charlie Wilson, and Kirk Franklin, earned a Billboard Top 10 hit with the classic Isley Brothers remake of “Let’s Fall In Love,” and invested in a new digital platform, Even.biz. His catalog of hits not only showcases his exceptional talent but also his dedication to delivering music that is both authentic and evocative. Raheem’s DeVaughn journey is not just about musical milestones; it's a testament to his unwavering commitment to artistry, his community, and the power of soulful music.
Sarah Potenza
Sarah Potenza is a critically acclaimed singer and songwriter with roots in Nashville and a nationwide fanbase. She competed on NBC’s Voice and America’s Got Talent. Her sophomore album,“Road to Rome” was number one on the iTunes blues charts. The record r eceived rave reviews from Rolling Stone, Billboard, American Songwriter, and NPR. Potenza, was named amongst the of the top three acts seen at SXSW by Rolling Stone Magazine. Sarah is currently creating music with Grammy winning producer, Dave Aude.
The Spinners
The Spinners are among the most iconic and enduring groups in the classic soul pantheon. With a towering legacy spanning over six decades, The Spinners enjoy universal appeal owing to a classic catalog of songs that have earned their place in the Great American Songbook. The group’s classic lineup —- Henry Fambrough, Billy Henderson, Pervis Jackson, Bobbie Smith, and Philippé Wynne — epitomized The Sound of Philadelphia. Producer Thom Bell deployed their signature harmonic blend and compelling lead vocals to channel the highs and lows of romance and heartbreak into a catalog of classic hits. The collaboration with Bell kicked off in stellar fashion with “I’ll Be Around,” which topped out at #3 on the Billboard Top 100 charts. The Spinners maintained residency atop the Pop, R&B, and Adult Contemporary Charts throughout the 1970s and early 80s, with smash singles like “I’ll Be Around,” “Could It Be I’m Falling In Love,” “Then Came You,” “The Rubberband Man'' and many more – earning six Grammy nominations, 18 Platinum and Gold Albums, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and selling millions of records sold worldwide along the way. The Spinners extraordinary accomplishments earned them Music’s Highest Honor when they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2023. Their legendary repertoire has earned a permanent place in the American songbook. Prior to their successful run at Atlantic Records, the Spinners scored their breakthrough hit as a Motown act with “It’s A Shame,” produced and co-written by Stevie Wonder. This R&B classic peaked at number #14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and #3 on the R&B charts. The Spinners remain one of the most exciting touring acts in classic R&B, with Jessie Peck, Ronnie Moss, CJ Jefferson, and Keith Patterson carrying on the legacy of crisp harmonies, precision choreography, and an exciting stage show!
2026 PARADE - TELECAST HOSTS
2026 PARADE - STREET REPORTERS
2026 PARADE - WEST END ANNOUNCERS
Interested in Participating in a Future Parade?
Submit an application today.
2026 Presenting Sponsor
2026 Segment SponsorS
2026 parade Sponsors
2025 SPONSORS
2026 media sponsors
special thANKS
National Park Service
Embassy of Japan
The Japan Foundation
Government of the District of Columbia
Mobility Access
This event is wheelchair-accessible.
Communication Access
ASL interpretation will be provided.
Service Animals
Service animals are always allowed.
Sensory Considerations
This event typically draws large crowds and can be noisy. If someone in your group has sensory sensitivities, you may wish to bring headphones or earplugs.
seating
Accessible seating is available. If you or a member of your party requires specific seating arrangements, please contact rsvp@ncbfdc.org in advance so we can accommodate your needs.
Additional Accommodations
For any other accessibility needs, please reach out to ncbf@ncbf.org so we can help ensure a positive experience
