Arlington National Cemetery and Soldiers' and Airmen's Home National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. will hold their annual removal of wreaths, known as Wreaths Out, on Saturday, Jan. 11, beginning at 8 a.m.
Thousands of visitors are expected to help remove approximately 257,000 wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery and approximately 14,000 at SAHNC. The high volume of visitors at Arlington National Cemetery may create traffic congestion and delays on nearby streets and at the cemetery’s entrances.
The top priority is the safety and security of visitors and employees during this event. Visitors should anticipate large crowds and difficulty driving vehicles in the vicinity of Arlington National Cemetery due to road closures. Visitors are encouraged to use all four entrances to access the cemetery: the Memorial Avenue Welcome Center, the Ord and Weitzel Gate (near the Marine Corps War Memorial), the Service Complex Gate (near the Air Force Memorial) and, for DoD cardholders, the Old Post Chapel Gate.
Vehicular access on cemetery grounds will not be permitted until normal operations resume. The Welcome Center Parking Garage will open to the public at 8 a.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. There will be no visitor tram service on Saturday. The gravesite shuttle will resume once the cemetery returns to normal operations.
We recommend that visitors use public transportation or a ride share service for travel to and from the cemetery. The drop-off location for ride share services is adjacent to the Arlington Cemetery Metro Stop on Memorial Avenue.
All visitors must pass through security screening before entering the cemetery. Prohibited items include: large bags or backpacks, firearms and weapons of any type, laser pointers, aerosol containers, soda cans, coolers, picnic baskets, tripods, lighters, screwdrivers (or similar tools), air horns, personal protection sprays and insulated beverage containers. Clear plastic water bottles are permitted.
Guidance for Visitors
* Give vehicles and heavy equipment the right of way.
* Remove Wreaths Across America wreaths only. Leave all other wreaths/decorations in place.
* Place wreaths in dumpsters positioned throughout the cemetery.
* When dumpsters are filled, carry remaining wreaths to unfilled dumpsters. Please do not place wreaths outside of dumpsters or anywhere else in the cemetery.
* Please follow instructions from staff to ensure the safety of visitors.
* To aid with the removal of multiple wreaths, the public is permitted to bring in PVC pipe, rope and broomsticks. No sharp metal objects are permitted.
* Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and bring work gloves, or other appropriate gear.
For the latest information and event details, please visit www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/waa