Event Spaces
Washington National Cathedral offers a wide variety of spaces for exceptional events in a unique setting.
If you are seeking information on wedding ceremonies, memorials, or baptisms, please see the Pastoral Offices Guidelines.
Virginia Mae Center
The newly-renovated Virginia Mae Center is a premiere venue for the Cathedral’s public programming and a unique gathering space that can support a range of different activities. Through residential programs, retreats, pilgrimages and conferences, the Virginia Mae Center is a convening point to undergird our strategic priorities of Welcoming, Convening, Deepening and Serving.
Learn more about the Virginia Mae Center and sign up to be among the first to know about opening plans and event capabilities.
Cathedral Nave
Adorned with beautiful stained glass, distinctive carvings and historical references, the Cathedral’s nave is glorious space to host a seated dinner, reception, wedding, lecture or concert. This space can be split to accommodate smaller events. The limestone columns offer a canvas which can be lit in any color to match décor or seasonal theme.
capacities
Standard: up to 1,600 people reception; up to 850 people dinner
Wedding (ceremony only): please inquire
Bethlehem Chapel
Imagine hosting your event in the Cathedral’s first chapel, completed in 1912. This chapel reflects a late 19th-century and early 20th-century perception of Gothic architecture with arched ceilings, unique carvings and columns. Located on the lower level of the Cathedral, this chapel can be set up for luncheons, dinners, receptions, weddings and lectures.
capacities
Standard: up to 150 people reception; up to 90 people dinner
Wedding (ceremony only): please inquire
Pilgrim Observation Gallery
Where else can your guests spend an evening with a view of Washington’s skyline decorated with city lights? Located on the seventh floor of the Cathedral’s north and south towers, the Pilgrim Observation Gallery offers a panoramic view of Washington, Virginia and Maryland. This space is ideal for a private daytime meeting, lunch, evening reception or elegant seated dinner.
capacities
Standard: up to 175 people reception; up to 100 people dinner
Charles A. Perry Auditorium
The Cathedral’s auditorium is equipped with a stage, screen, and podium. This space can accommodate a classroom and board room setting with tables and chairs. Audio and visual capabilities are also available.
Adjacent to the Pilgrim Observation Gallery, this area can be rented separately or as an additional space to your event.
capacities
Standard: up to 180 people lecture; up to 100 people dinner
Amphitheater (outdoors)
The amphitheater is located just across South Road along the edge of the beautiful Olmstead Woods. With the Central Tower visible behind it, the amphitheater is available for lectures, receptions, concerts and other small gatherings. This space is equipped with a stone stage, tiered seating and electrical power.
Audio capabilities are available if requested.
capacities
Please inquire
West Front Lawn (outdoors)
The west front lawn is a wonderful outdoor space with the Cathedral’s iconic towers as the backdrop for receptions, dinners and other small gatherings.
capacities
Standard: up to 800 people reception