This year's National Memorial Day Concert Sunday at 8 p.m. features former "American Idol" winner Kris Allen, B.B. King, the National Symphony Orchestra and much more in a program broadcast live from the West Lawn of the Capitol. Going to brave the crowds? Here are some things to know before you go:

1. This year's concert will be co-hosted by Gary Sinise ("Lt. Dan" in "Forrest Gump" and Joe Montegna ("Criminal Minds").

2. The Sunday weather forecast from the National Weather Service calls for sunny skies with highs in the upper 80s.

3. There is a rehearsal of the show on Saturday night that usually begins at 7:30 p.m., with gates opening at 5 p.m.

4. Metro is the best way to get to the concert since many streets will be closed. The nearest stations are Capitol South, Federal Center SW (Orange/Blue line) and Union Station (Red line)

5. The program will include a 10-year commemoration of Sept. 11, 2001, a salute to families of those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, stories of children who lost their parents to war, and a tribute to World War II vets, on the 70th anniversary of Pearl Harbor.

6. The concert is open to the public and is free, no tickets are required.

7. Gates to enter the West Lawn are located on the southwest corner of the Capitol grounds, near Independence Avenue and First Street SW. They open at 5 p.m. (bags will be searched and guests will enter through a metal detector) the program starts at 8 p.m. and ends at 9:30 p.m.

8. Other interesting venues (all free) nearby: U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW; National Museum of the American Indian, 300 Maryland Ave., SW, National Gallery of Art, Fourth Street NW.

9. WETA will broadcast the concert live and will re-air the program again Sunday night, from 9:30-11 p.m.

10. Have fun!