Learn & Discover

This Cathedral is your gateway to discovery, from public programs to art and architecture.

Featured and Upcoming Events

Summer Yoga Series

Tue. June 10, 7 pm (indoor)
Thu. June 12, 7 pm (indoor)
Sat. June 14, 9 am (outdoor)

 All skill levels are welcome to join a yoga session surrounded by the Cathedral's vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows, or outside in the Cathedral's lush, peaceful amphitheater. Find new paths to mindfulness under the guidance of experienced Flow Yoga Center instructors and embrace tranquility and connection.
Get Tickets

After Hours in the Towers

Thursdays, June 19–July 24
5–7 pm; climbs run every 15 minutes

 Experience the Cathedral like never before with an all-new after-hours event! Begin with a special edition Tower Climb and ascend through winding staircases and hidden passageways to see up-close details and panoramic vistas. After the climb, relax with light refreshments in the Cathedral’s Tower Observation Gallery and take in breathtaking views of “golden hour” over the DC area.
Get Tickets

An Evening with Bishop Mariann Budde & Tim Shriver

Original event date: May 22, 2025

 In case you missed it: Catch up on the evening conversation featuring Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde and Tim Shriver, founder of UNITE and co-founder the Dignity Index, where they explored the role of dignity in our public life.
Watch Archived Stream

This Week's Public Programs

Full Calendar
Vaulting in the Cathedral, bathed in colorful light flooding in from the stained glass windows

Listening for God
Jun. 17

Online Only
Free
Detail of ironwork against backdrop of colorful stained glass window

Online Centering Prayer
Jun. 17

Online Only
Free
Detail of ironwork against backdrop of colorful stained glass window

Centering Prayer
Jun. 19

Center for Prayer and Pilgrimage
Free
Vaulting in the Cathedral, bathed in colorful light flooding in from the stained glass windows

Listening for God
Jun. 24

Online Only
Free
Detail of ironwork against backdrop of colorful stained glass window

Online Centering Prayer
Jun. 24

Online Only
Free
Detail of ironwork against backdrop of colorful stained glass window

Centering Prayer
Jun. 26

Center for Prayer and Pilgrimage
Free
Vaulting in the Cathedral, bathed in colorful light flooding in from the stained glass windows

Listening for God
Jul. 1

Online Only
Free
Detail of ironwork against backdrop of colorful stained glass window

Online Centering Prayer
Jul. 1

Online Only
Free

All-New 3D Tour Experience

virtual tour
Wander through the magnificent nave, examine the intricate carvings of the high altar, see the curiosities of crypt-level chapels, and virtually touch some of the Cathedral's most beloved features from the Space Window's moon rock to the vaulted ceilings. 3D Virtual Tour

quick links

Public Programs: College of Faith & Culture

The College of Faith & Culture features programs that gather God’s people to deepen spirituality, nurture reconciliation and elevate the moral lens of the Gospel in civic life.

Art & Architecture

For centuries, Gothic architecture has lifted eyes and hearts to the heavens. Here at the world’s sixth-largest Cathedral, you can marvel at old-world artisanship.

History

From the laying of the foundation stone in 1907 to the present and everything in between. Learn more about the years of construction, significant events, and other historical facts.

Fun Facts

Is there actually a Darth Vader carving? Is it a real piece of moon rock in the space window? How much does all that limestone weigh? The Cathedral features a dizzying array of whimsy and wonder!

Roll of Honor

In a tradition of Cathedrals around the world, Washington National Cathedral remembers the fallen and MIA, and honors those who are serving and have served. Honor a veteran you know by adding their name, or search the archive.

3D Virtual Tour

Walk through the magnificent nave and crypt, explore up-close details of the chapels, and click on tagged highlights to delve deeper into Cathedral art, architecture and history.

The Now and Forever Windows

racial & social justice
The Cathedral’s Now and Forever Windows capture the resilience, faith and endurance of African Americans and our nation’s struggle with the original sins of racism and slavery. Catch up on the entire project and stay informed about upcoming related events. explore now