WASHINGTON, D.C. – The 156th National Memorial Day Observance, recognizing and commemorating the fallen men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces, is scheduled for Monday, May 27, 2024, at 11 a.m., in the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington, Virginia.
The annual event is free and open to the public. Seating in the amphitheater is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Scheduled events for the observance include: the United States Air Force Band’s Singing Sergeants and the U.S. Coast Guard Band performing a prelude in the amphitheater at 10:15 a.m.; a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier conducted by a joint service team; and the national observance inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by Veterans’ organizations and remarks from dignitaries. Attendance for the annual wreath-laying ceremony will be limited this year to official participants.
Additional details are as follows:
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Free parking is available at Arlington National Cemetery’s Welcome Center parking lot from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Walking to and from the amphitheater is strictly prohibited. Attendees interested in attending the observance must use the tram from the Welcome Center to the Memorial Amphitheater. The tram will run between 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., or until capacity for the event is reached. Immediately following the ceremony, the tram will resume operations and begin returning attendees to the Welcome Center from the conclusion of the ceremony until 2 p.m.
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Attendees are required to pass through a security checkpoint to gain access to the cemetery and Memorial Amphitheater. Prohibited items include umbrellas, hard water bottles, large bags or backpacks, firearms and weapons of any type, laser pointers, aerosol containers, soda cans, coolers, picnic baskets, tripods, lighters, screwdrivers (or similar tools), air horns, personal protection sprays, brass knuckles, and insulated beverage containers. Clear plastic water bottles are permitted.
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Family pass holders visiting their loved ones may enter the cemetery via Memorial Avenue or through the Service Complex Gate.
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Attendees and family pass holders should expect delays entering and exiting the cemetery, as well as movement freezes inside the cemetery during the National Memorial Day Observance.
A live stream of the event will be available at www.dvidshub.net/webcast/34418.
Contact the U.S. Army Military District of Washington Public Affairs Office at usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.mediadesk-omb@army.mil for additional information on the observance program.