Band and Choral Performance Permits

 
Chorus singing near the Lincoln Memorial

NPS

Bands and choirs travel from around the country to perform at the iconic national monuments and memorials on the National Mall and Memorial Parks. A permit is required for having these performances in the park.

Things to Know Before Applying

A permits specialist will guide applicants through the permitting process and can also be contacted before applying to answer any questions. Please also review the Permits Resources related to your proposed activity.

Location and Location-Specific Requirements

Most band and choral performances take place at these locations. Contact the Permits Management Office to discuss any additional potential areas.

Lincoln Memorial

Performances are permitted on the Reflecting Pool steps near the Lincoln Memorial. Power is available upon request with advanced notice. Buses can drop off participants and equipment on Daniel French Drive. Public restrooms are available in the memorial. No organized activities are allowed within the chamber of the Lincoln Memorial.

Sylvan Theater (Washington Monument grounds)

Performances are permitted at Sylvan Theater, an outdoor amphitheater with power, outdoor lighting, and dressing rooms. Buses can drop off participants and equipment on a pull off on Independence Avenue. Public restrooms are available near the theater. Sylvan Theater is generally not available from June 25-July 6 due to Independence Day festivities.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Performances are permitted on the Memorial Plaza of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Power is available upon request with advanced notice. Buses can drop off participants and equipment on East Basin Drive. No organized activities are allowed with the chamber of the Lincoln Memorial. Public restrooms are available in the memorial. No organized activities are allowed within the chamber of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.

World War II Memorial

Performances are permitted on the ceremonial entrance plaza of the World War II Memorial between 10 am to 12 pm (noon) and 5 pm to 7 pm. Limited setup equipment is allowed, including chairs, choir risers, music stands, and tables. Sound must be directed toward the Washington Monument. No electricity is available at this location. Buses can drop off participants and equipment on Home Front Drive off of Independence Avenue.

Additional Required Documents and Steps

Depending on the size and scope of the event, the permits specialist may require additional meetings and more in-depth event plans prior to approving the permit, such as site layout, setup/cleanup schedule, equipment lists, etc.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, however it may be limited based on the location chosen, please work directly with your permit specialist.
Buses can load and unload at the following locations:

Lincoln Memorial: Daniel French Drive
Thomas Jefferson Memorial: East Basin Drive
Sylvan Theater: Independence Avenue between 15th-17th Street
World War II Memorial: Homefront Drive
Bus parking is available on a first-come, first use basis on Hains Point by the picnic areas and in West Potomac Park on Ohio Drive.
 

QUICKLINKS

  • Clown
    Permits

    Get more information about permits for special activities, First Amendment demonstrations, and commercial filming and photography.

  • Graphic of a telephone and envelope
    Permit Office Contact Information

    Find contact information for the National Mall and Memorial Parks’ Division of Permits Management and neighboring parks.

  • Ranger behind a desk talking to someone submitting paperwork
    Permit FAQs

    Check a list of frequently asked questions about permit and the permitting process to help you plan.

Last updated: October 29, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1100 Ohio Drive SW
Washington, DC 20242

Phone:

202-426-6841

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