Legendary Singer Performing At Navy-Marine Corps Anniversary Celebration

PHILADELPHIA — The 250th anniversary celebration of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps in Philadelphia will be marked with a free concert, and a legendary singer from Philadelphia is set to perform.

Philadelphia is hosting the free "Victory at Sea" concert at Independence Mall on Oct. 12.

And headlining the concert is Philadelphia’s own Miss Patti LaBelle. She will be joined by the U.S. Navy Band and the U.S. Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps.

Other special guests include "American Idol" season one finalist Justin Guarini and Rhonda Vincent & The Rage.

Retired United States Marine Corps Officer and comedian-actor Rob Riggle is hosting the event.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and conclude with fireworks. Doors will open at 6 p.m. with pre-program entertainment.

The concert will be a nationally televised broadcast.

Before the concert, a gathering of United States veterans and civilians will be held during a day-long picnic at Independence Mall from noon until 5 p.m. The picnic features music by the U.S. Navy Band, Country Current & The Leather Necks, a rally point spirit competition, and a picnic remix competition featuring celebrity chef and UK Royal Navy veteran Robert Irvine, special recognition ceremony honoring those that served in WWII, The Korean War, and Vietnam War, more than 50 vendors, food trucks, veteran service organizations and activations, PA Army National Guard Rock Climbing Wall, Naval History and Heritage Booth, US Navy Recruiting, and many statics displays throughout the site plan.

"As we look ahead to our nation’s 250th birthday next July, Philadelphia will first honor 250 years of bravery and service from the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps," Mayor Cherelle Parker said. "The 'Victory at Sea' concert on October 12th will feature the Navy Band, Marine Corps Drum & Bugle Corps, and Philly legend, Patti LaBelle."

As Americans celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence – the Semiquincentennial – Philadelphia and New Jersey will be commemorating the founding of the military services that helped the United States gain and defend the nation's independence for 250 years. This week will feature events, including the parade of Navy ships and other vessels, a spectacular flyover by the Blue Angels, special museum exhibits, tours of modern and historic ships, and much more.

A full list of additional events to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy and the Marine Corps is available online here.