Sunset Parade at the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial
Details
The Sunset Parade ceremony, featuring "The Commandant's Own" United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, showcases Marine Corps precision, discipline, and tradition. The Sunset Parade tradition began in 1956 as a tribute to the Marines whose “uncommon valor was a common virtue.” Standing in the shadow of the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial’s 32-foot-high figures, guests experience a unique ceremony that honors Marine Corps heritage and dedication.
Let's meet in Rosslyn and walk to the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial to enjoy the ceremony!
❶ What we'll do:
- From the sidewalk in front of McDonald's, across the street from the Rosslyn Metro Station (Moore St side), we'll walk about 0.6 miles south along Fort Myer Dr and Meade St to the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, arriving at the restrooms. From there we'll pick out a likely spot to watch the ceremony. After the ceremony is complete, we'll return north to our starting point.
- The walk a little over a mile, mostly flat with steps here and there, and should take about 15 minutes each direction. This is a very easy walk.
- Google map: https://tinyurl.com/mu2u6se8
❷ How to get there:
- Driving: Rosslyn Metro Station is located at 1850 N. Moore Street, Arlington, VA. There is limited parallel parking in the area, but allow time to hunt for it. See https://goo.gl/maps/AQjzsa82x5XcWHYDA
- Metro: Rosslyn Metro Station is on the Blue and Orange Metro lines. See current Metro status here: https://www.wmata.com/service/status/
❸ What to bring: Water, comfy shoes, and weather-dependent clothing or umbrellas. Insect repellent, a flashlight, and a light blanket or folding chair to sit on during the ceremony are recommended.
❹ Weather: The forecast is partly cloudy and a high of 88F, with 6 mph SSE winds and a 24-36% chance of showers, with possible thunderstorms. Updates: https://tinyurl.com/mpzzy5tk
❺ Advisories:
- As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers.
❻ Administrative stuff:
- Restrooms are located at McDonald's near the meetup point (open 24/7) and at the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (restrooms close at 8 pm).
- Cost: Admission is free, and no reservations are required.
❼ Notes:
- Sunset Parades at the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, https://www.barracks.marines.mil/Parade-Information/
Event illustration: U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christian Varney/Released (public domain)