Wreath Laying Ceremony Permits

 

Placing a wreath at one of the many monuments and memorials on the National Mall and Memorial Parks is a common practice throughout the year, especially around holidays and anniversaries. Organized wreath laying ceremonies that may include equipment setup, speeches, or an audience generally require a permit.

Applying for a Permit

Application Form

How to Apply for a Permit - National Mall and Memorial Parks (U.S. National Park Service)

Next Steps

A permits specialist will contact you if additional meetings, discussions, or documents are required and continue to walk you through the permit process. A Public Gathering permit must be issued prior to holding the activity 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.

Locations and Location-Specific Requirements

Most wreath layings take place at these locations. Contact the Division of Permits Management to discuss any additional potential areas.

Korean War Veterans Memorial Area A

Wreath laying ceremonies are permitted in Area A of the Korean War Veterans Memorial. A maximum of five people may lay the wreath at the Korean War Veterans Memorial Wall of Remembrance or statues, while other participants may visit the wreath location at the conclusion of the event. Limited setup may include flags, chairs, and a podium in Area A. Other equipment must be discussed with the permits specialist.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial / Constitution Gardens Area 5

Wreath laying ceremonies are permitted on a lawn area between the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Constitution Gardens, including all speeches, ceremonial events, and equipment setup. A maximum of five people may lay the wreath at the Vietnam Veteran Memorial's wall or statues, while other participants may visit the wreath location at the conclusion of the event.

World War II Memorial

Wreath laying ceremonies are permitted on the Ceremonial Entrance Plaza of the World War II Memorial. A maximum of five people may lay the wreath to a pillar or arch, while other participants may observe the wreath laying from the ceremony site and visit its location at the conclusion of the event. No organized activity is allowed in the area of the Freedom Wall of Stars.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I have a ceremony at locations not listed on this page?

Yes. Wreath Laying ceremonies can take place at any site outside of any restricted areas.

Do I need a permit if I am laying a wreath but not having a ceremony?

No, visitors may lay wreaths at monuments and memorials without a permit if there is not an associated ceremony.

 

QUICKLINKS

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  Permits

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

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  Permit Planning Resources

  Review rules, regulations, and other important information to know if planning to get a permit.

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  Permit FAQs

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