Host Your Event
From show-stopping galas to intimate retreats, Washington National Cathedral can host your perfect event.
Washington National Cathedral is a premier DC-area venue for exceptional events in a unique setting. Along with the newly-renovated Virginia Mae Center, Cathedral spaces may be reserved for private events such as weddings, galas, receptions, celebrations, lunches and dinners, meetings, and many other types of gatherings.
Our location offers stunning architectural settings, historical significance, and panoramic views from downtown DC to the Blue Ridge mountains, with on-site parking for cars and shuttle buses.
Cathedral Event Spaces
Washington National Cathedral offers a wide variety of spaces, both indoor and outdoor, for exceptional events in a unique setting. Browse our spaces, including the iconic Nave, historic Bethlehem Chapel, and more.
Virginia Mae Center
Nestled on the grounds of Washington National Cathedral, the newly-renovated Virginia Mae Center offers overnight accommodation and is home to the Cathedral’s public programming and an intimate gathering space for retreats, pilgrimages, conferences and private events.
Weddings
A marriage is one of the most joyful services celebrated in churches. Washington National Cathedral is pleased to hold weddings, marriage blessings, and renewal of vows. Learn more below about guidelines for these ceremonies at the Cathedral and Virginia Mae Center.Frequently Asked Questions
From intimate dinners and soirées to festive receptions and grand galas, the Cathedral’s magnificent spaces will captivate your guests. The Cathedral is also privileged to help mark life events and milestones such as weddings, funerals, and baptisms.
- Adorned with magnificent stained glass, the iconic Cathedral Nave is ideal for a dinner, reception, lecture, concert, and more
- Raise a glass with your guests in the Cathedral Towers with 360° views of DC and spectacular sunsets
- Historic Bethlehem Chapel’s stunning architecture is well-suited for a salon-style dinner or other intimate gathering
- Equipped with a stage, screen, podium, and AV capabilities, Perry Auditorium is perfect for lectures, meetings, and more
- The Cathedral’s west lawn and amphitheater provide stunning backdrops for outdoor events
- Overnight religious and private retreats, pilgrimages, and events can be hosted at the newly-renovated Virginia Mae Center
Washington National Cathedral holds a unique place at the intersection of sacred and civic life and carries out its mission to foster a welcoming environment for all. As such, the Cathedral invites groups to explore our rental locations for private events. To date, the Cathedral has hosted countless fundraisers, celebratory galas, concerts, corporate receptions, conference-style lectures, intimate dinners and more.
Please note before beginning the request process:
The Cathedral reviews all event rental requests for missional alignment and special pricing is available for groups whose mission closely aligns with the Cathedral. The Cathedral is unable to host an event that is: primarily political in nature, selling a commercial product, or involving a media/press conference.
Washington National Cathedral offers event spaces in both the Cathedral itself and the new Virginia Mae Center.
The Cathedral can host large functions (up to 1600 people) in the Nave and smaller functions for 100+ people in other spaces.
The Virginia Mae Center is an intimate space ideally suited for overnight retreats, board meetings, and gatherings between 20-25 people. Additionally, the Virginia Mae Center can be used for small services between 30-40 people and elegant receptions and/or seated meals for 60-125 people. The Virginia Mae Center is also available for buyouts.
A member of our hospitality team will work you to assess your event needs to present the best options for your consideration.
Please complete an inquiry form and we will get back to you shortly about booking your event.
Inquiry forms are separated into two main venue areas so that our hospitality team can better expedite your request: