Arlington National Cemetery Memorial Day Observance

Arlington National Cemetery Memorial Day Observance

If you're looking for a way to make Memorial Day meaningful for your kids, this is it. The ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery includes military band performances and the wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and it's the kind of experience that sticks with kids long after the day is over. Watching the precision of the honor guard and hearing the music in person gives the whole holiday a weight that watching it on TV just can't match.

The ceremony itself starts at noon on Monday. After it wraps up, you can walk the cemetery grounds together. It's a big space with rolling hills and rows of white headstones, and older kids especially tend to get quiet and thoughtful as they take it all in. Just know that this is a solemn occasion, so it helps to talk to your kids beforehand about what to expect and why it matters. It's free to attend, and getting there by Metro is by far the easiest option.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Arrive early as security screening takes time. Lines can be long on Memorial Day, so plan to get there well before the noon ceremony.
• ✓Wear comfortable walking shoes. The cemetery is very large with lots of hills, and you'll be on your feet for a while.
• ✓Bring water and sunscreen. There's limited shade in many areas of the cemetery, and it can get hot in late May.
• ✓This is a solemn event, so prepare kids for the respectful atmosphere. Talk to them beforehand about what Memorial Day means and what they'll see.
• ✓Strollers are allowed but some areas have hills. Be ready for some uphill pushing if you bring one.