July 5, 2009 Fireworks color sky in nation's capital Play video

(NECN: Washington, D.C.) - With the Washington Monument in the foreground, Washington, D.C. saw its sky light up with Fourth of July fireworks on Saturday night.

The National Mall held a celebration in which thousands gathered for a performance by singer Barry Manilow. Fireworks lit up the national monuments as a band played a medley of patriotic music.

The first family spent the day celebrating two birthdays -- those of the nation and 11-year-old Malia Obama.

"When she was younger, I used to say that all these fireworks were for her. I'm not sure she still buys that," President Obama said.

The Obamas hosted about 1,200 military families on the White House South Lawn for a Independence Day barbecue.

Material from The Associated Press used in this report.