Satisfying, interesting and fun, PBS broadcasts hundreds of shows that entertain and educate, and all are free when using a HDTV antenna to capture over-the-air signals.
PBS stations are non-profit and locally run. PBS member stations have quarterly membership drives to keep their programming on the air. Financial gifts by PBS members during these fundraising events are essential to the operation of all local PBS stations.
The continued financial support of this broadcast network by the public has encouraged exponential growth of high quality programming for more than forty years. PBS programming has been transformed over decades from a few local shows into programming schedules; specific to the viewer’s area, that include world news, music specials, documentaries, children’s programming and so much more!
Early Memory of PBS
I can remember being a little kid and watching Bert and Ernie on Sesame Street, broadcast over air on PBS (coincidentally, the show is celebrating its 45th anniversary today – find out when and where you can catch it and many more PBS Kids programming for free). Back then, my folks used a ‘rabbit ear’ antenna to get over-the-air TV, which meant that sometimes watching TV resulted in an impromptu yoga workout as I contorted myself to get the antenna adjusted just right to capture the signal.
I still enjoy PBS, and get it for free over air, but thankfully I no longer have to worry about moving my over air antenna around to get a clear signal. Now I use the Curve 50 Indoor HDTV Antenna to grab digital HD broadcasts, including the shows broadcast by PBS. I save $100 a month not having cable TV, and I don’t feel like I’m missing out on a thing.
With hundreds of shows that immerse viewers in subjects past and present, PBS has an outstanding number of shows that more than satisfy my intellectual curiosity and desire to be entertained.
If you haven’t looked at PBS recently, take a look! It really is “TV worth watching.”
10 Terrific PBS Series
1. Downton Abbey
I didn’t think I’d like this show, but after only a few episodes I was hooked! Definitely worth watching if you enjoy a multi-faceted story line that spans generations and strings together historical moments.
Also check out the other Masterpiece series’ on PBS.
2. Antiques Roadshow
Ever wondered how much that old painting hanging in the spare bedroom is worth?
If you get started watching this program you’ll definitely be viewing your old stuff as a fresh source of income! Look for the Antiques Roadshow tour to come to your area and see if you can get on the show.
3. FRONTLINE
Smart, in-depth reporting and edgy visuals are the backbone of this longstanding PBS news series. Focusing on issues related to Health, Technology, Science, Government and Social Issues, FRONTLINE delves deep and provides information that often leads to more questions.
4. NATURE
A beautifully done series that focus’ on the many aspects of our natural world and the animals that inhabit it. If you enjoy the Discovery Channel on cable, you’ll love this series on PBS.
5. NOVA
Hundreds of educational programs on topics ranging from Ancient Worlds to Technology, NOVA programs are often used by teachers to broaden their students understandings of specific topics.
6. American Experience
A historical series that gives the viewer insights into American history, often played out on the world stage. The American Experience is a unique adventure, filled with monumental achievements and horrific tragedies that continue to mold our nation to this day.
The Freedom Riders , Mount Rushmore, and the Civil War are a few of the shows that make up the American Experience.
7. American Masters
This series celebrates arts and culture, showcasing performer biographies. Musicians, actors, writers and visual artists come into focus through a new lens when viewing the video library of the American Masters.
8. PBS NEWSHOUR
An eclectic mix of topics are covered, all in a professional news format that is akin to 60 Minutes or a similar network program. Each episode covers a topic or two in a way that provides the viewer with a new understanding.
9. Austin City Limits
Concerts in the comfort of your own home! Get front row seats to the best musical entertainment in HD with this concert series that showcases acts from all the major genres of music.
10. Great Performances
Where else are you going to enjoy Tony Bennett in concert with Lady Gaga? Dance, drama, musical theater and opera performances are showcased in this fantastic series.
Andrea Polk hails from Oregon and is a wife, mother, writer, Amazon Top 50 Reviewer, and more. She’s also the author of the Simple Guide to Over-the-Air Free TV as well as the avid deal-seeker behind SavvySleuth.com, where she scours the web for the best online deals.
