A big bang
Celebrate Independence Day from our nation's capital with host Tom Bergeron and "A Capitol Fourth" (7 p.m., TPT, Ch. 2). Except for Barry Manilow, these singers are all made-by-TV stars: Candice Glover and Scotty McCreery from "American Idol," Darren Criss from "Glee," Megan Hilty from "Smash" and PBS sensation Jackie Evancho. There will be fireworks, too.
Mariah on fi-ya
Macy's not only stages a Thanksgiving Day Parade but also "Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular" (7 p.m., KARE, Ch. 11). Expect vocal fireworks, as well, from Mariah Carey, Tim McGraw, Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift. Nick Cannon, a k a Mr. Mariah Carey, is the host.
The South does it again
There are some patriotic movies on the tube today, but there is no better film than "Beasts of the Southern Wild" (7:20 p.m., Cinemax), probably the most underappreciated movie of 2012. A father prepares a courageous kid (the stunningly terrific Oscar nominee Quvenzhané Wallis) for the end of the world when floodwaters and strange beasts threaten their Mississippi Delta home.
Jon bream
