Star-Spangled Salute Returns to The Woodlands with Houston Symphony and Christina Wells
Liberty, music, and community spirit will come together on July 3, 2025 as the Star-Spangled Salute returns to the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, bringing the beloved Houston Symphony and powerhouse vocalist Christina Wells to the stage for a stirring Independence Day celebration. Sponsored by ExxonMobil, this annual tradition offers free seating and opens its gates at 6:30 p.m., with the show beginning promptly at 8:00 p.m.
An iconic summer event in The Woodlands, the Star-Spangled Salute has become more than just a concert—it's a cherished rite of passage for many area families. With fireworks, symphonic fanfare, and timeless vocals, it’s often the first introduction to live orchestral music for young concertgoers. Over the years, those same children have returned with kids of their own, passing the tradition forward.
This year’s program is both patriotic and eclectic, blending American classics and pop favorites. Musical selections include Tchaikovsky’s thunderous 1812 Overture, Gershwin’s upbeat Strike Up the Band, and a heartfelt Armed Forces Medley honoring each military branch. Christina Wells, a Houston-based nurse and America’s Got Talent semifinalist, will bring her signature soul and message of self-love to beloved songs such as “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and “At Last.”
Wells’ journey from registered nurse to nationally recognized performer has resonated with audiences across the country. Her powerful vocals and uplifting energy have been featured in national publications including USA Today, Forbes, and The Washington Post. She recently toured as Matron “Mama” Morton in the Broadway National Tour of Chicago and regularly performs the National Anthem for major sports leagues like the MLB and NFL.
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At the helm will be Maestro Steven Reineke, Principal POPS Conductor of the Houston Symphony, renowned for his work with The New York Pops at Carnegie Hall and collaborations with icons such as Nas, Common, and Ben Folds. Reineke’s vibrant conducting style promises to make this year’s Star-Spangled Salute one to remember.
This event does more than entertain—it breaks barriers in arts access. By providing free admission, the Pavilion opens the door to world-class music for thousands who may not otherwise experience it. The phrase “arts access for all” isn’t just a motto—it’s the mission.
What to Know Before You Go
- Date: Thursday, July 3, 2025
- Location: Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, 2005 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands, TX
- Gates Open: 6:30 p.m. | Showtime: 8:00 p.m.
- Admission: Free seating sponsored by ExxonMobil
- Parking: Free parking available at 2002 Timberloch Place; lots open 30 minutes before gates
- Security: Walk-through metal detectors at entrances; plan ahead for parking and entry
- Tip: Transactions at The Pavilion are now fully cashless
To receive email reminders about this event, visit Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Event Signup.
Whether you’re returning for the nostalgia or attending for the first time, the Star-Spangled Salute offers a night of unity, pride, and awe-inspiring performance under the Texas sky.
Stay tuned with My Neighborhood News for more community events and celebrations across Greater Houston.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
