Going to Arlington for Veterans Day? What to know before Nov. 11
The national observance is free and open to the public, but tram-only access and a long banned-items list mean planning ahead.
Volunteers lay wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery each December; the Veterans Day observance is Nov. 11. Photo: Stephen Smith / DVIDS
The National Veterans Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery is Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. in the Memorial Amphitheater. Admission is free, and seating is first-come, first-served, according to the cemetery.
Key times:
- 8 a.m.: Free parking opens at the Welcome Center lot (open until 5 p.m.).
- About 8:30 a.m.: Trams begin running from the Welcome Center until the event reaches capacity.
- 10:30 a.m.: Prelude by the U.S. Coast Guard Band with the U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants.
- 11 a.m.: Observance begins.
Getting there: Walking to or from the amphitheater is not allowed; the tram is the only way in. Expect delays entering and leaving, and movement freezes inside the cemetery during the ceremony. Family pass holders can use the main entrance on Memorial Avenue. The wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is limited to official participants.
Security: Everyone passes through a checkpoint. Leave at home umbrellas, large bags and backpacks, coolers, alcohol, bicycles, weapons, drones, aerosol cans, lighters, selfie sticks, tripods and glass, metal or thermal containers. Clear disposable plastic water bottles are allowed; hard bottles will be confiscated and not returned.
The tram is the only way in.
Also closed: The U.S. Air Force Memorial and the area around it have been closed to visitors since on or about Nov. 2 for utility and construction work.
Checklist:
- Arrive by 8:30 a.m.
- Dress in layers and bring rain gear without an umbrella.
- Carry a small bag and a clear plastic water bottle only.
- Check the cemetery’s website the morning of for changes.
- Can’t go? Watch the livestream on DVIDS at dvidshub.net/webcast/38645.
