How to See the Wreath Laying at Lincoln Memorial

Every February 12 at noon Eastern Time, a wreath is laid at the Lincoln Memorial and the Gettysburg Address is recited in honor of the president enshrined there. Those visiting Washington, DC during that period may wish to see the wreath laying as part of their trip. Given Washington's busy nature and the popularity of its tourist sites during a holiday weekend, you may want to plan ahead.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Map of Washington, DC
• Binoculars

1. Make plans for parking. It is notoriously difficult to find parking in Washington DC, and the National Mall (which includes the Lincoln Memorial) has few free spaces. The best options can be found along Ohio Ave. south of the Memorial, or lots A, B, & C by the Jefferson Memorial. Otherwise, you should take public transit, or else bite the bullet and pay a parking garage.

2. Check with the park officials for details about the wreath laying. Park Rangers are available at the site from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. and can answer questions about the best place to stand, whether there will be any delays, and so on.

3. Arrive early. The hall itself is usually dedicated to seats for dignitaries, though the public can spread out on the steps and green around the Reflecting Pool. If you have a good vantage point, but are distant from the event, use binoculars to see the laying of the wreath.

4. Dress somberly and turn your cell phones off. The wreath laying is considered a dignified affair, mourning Lincoln's martyrdom and honoring his sacrifice. They present the flag along with the wreaths, and the program concludes with the playing of "Taps." While there is no formal dress code (it's a public site), attendees are expected to show respect for the occasion.

5. Plan to be there for some time. The ceremonies often include a variety of speakers--Congressmen, ministers, and similar luminaries--along with a reading of the Gettysburg address. You will likely have a opportunity to view the wreath after the ceremony, though the crowds may take a little while to disperse.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the date carefully. The wreath laying takes place on Lincoln's birthday (February 12), which is not the same as President's Day (the third Monday in February).
• The year 2009 marks Lincoln's 200th birthday. The festivities that year are apt to be considerably more elaborate. If you wish to wait until then to see the wreath laying, the attendant pomp may be worth it, but be prepared for larger crowds at the Lincoln Memorial.