Independence Day Visiting Guidelines

To celebrate Independence Day, many neighbors have a tradition of coming to the Peace Cross on the Cathedral Close as a local vantage point from which to watch the fireworks on the National Mall. We welcome you to join them and offer this information to help you plan your visit.

Safety of all visitors to the Close is our primary concern on this festive occasion. Because there are many pedestrians crossing the roads, we will impose the following vehicular restrictions:

• No parking will be permitted on South Road after 1 pm
• No vehicular traffic will be permitted on South Road, Lych Gate Road, and Pilgrim Road after 1 pm

Please note that masks are required for all visitors to the Cathedral grounds.

Restrooms will be available on level B2 of the garage. There will be no admittance to Washington National Cathedral after the 11:15 am Holy Eucharist. The Cathedral garage will be open until 11 pm.

Alcoholic beverages and fireworks are prohibited on the Cathedral grounds.

Join the National Cathedral online as we celebrate with patriotic music that has become the soundtrack of our nation, including favorites from Aaron Copland, John Philip Sousa and many others. This Independence Day Concert is free, but registration is required.

Following the 11:15 am service, the Washington Ringing Society will celebrate the holiday with a full peal attempt from 12:30 pm to approximately 4:30 pm.