National Acolyte Festival
Thank you for joining us!
Washington National Cathedral is delighted to welcome acolytes, servers, and vergers from across the country each year to celebrate this vital ministry of service and faith. The festival is a time-honored tradition for many congregations, and we are eager for this year’s edition on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
national acolyte festival at a glance
The festival runs from 9 am to 2:30 pm, and begins as participants join in the longest and most colorful procession imaginable—the Grandest of Processions—as we prepare to gather around Christ’s table for a festival Holy Eucharist.
Following the service, participants are invited to spend the afternoon exploring the Cathedral, the grounds, or join a variety of fun workshops and offerings: perfect your thurible techniques, help build the LEGO® Cathedral, create a liturgical streamer, take a look at Cathedral treasures, or peruse exhibitors.
Lunch is available for pre-purchase during the registration process, or you are welcome to bring your own.
2026 Service Livestream
Planning FAQs
To help your group's planning, tap the items below for more information.
All acolytes, vergers, servers, and clergy are invited and encouraged to vest and participate in the Grandest of Processions. Clergy should wear white/festive stole. All are welcome to bring crosses and torches, banners, streamers, umbrellas, and other appointments from your parish. You are also welcome to bring thuribles, but for safety reasons they cannot be lit.
A local vendor will have boxed lunches available immediately after the services. You can pre-purchase lunches on the registration page. Lunches must be ordered and paid for in advance by October 2. Box lunches will not be available to purchase on-site.
Free parking for cars and vans will be available in the on-site parking garage.
Parking reservations are required if your group is coming by bus, and there is a $50 fee for bus parking. Please contact [email protected] for parking procedure and payment information.
Please contact us at [email protected].
In the hands of acolytes, servers and vergers, tasks—no matter how small—take on profound significance. They uplift the spirit and strengthen our shared faith. The Festival affirms and celebrates their shared sense of purpose, joy, and community. Welcome home!”
—Dr. Torrence N. Thomas