News Release

Memorial Day Weekend Luminaria at National Cemetery

The Illumination of the National Cemetery is an annual event

Rebecca Cunningham

News Release Date: May 8, 2018

Contact: Peter Maugle, 540-693-3200 x 4160

On Saturday, May 26, the National Park Service will host the 23rd annual luminaria at Fredericksburg National Cemetery. The program runs from 8 pm to 11 pm, and is free to the public. In the event of rain, the date will be moved to Sunday, May 27th.
 
The luminaria honors soldiers who have died in the service of this country. Members of the Mattaponi and Aquia Districts of the Boy Scouts of America and the Commonwealth Council Girl Scouts of the USA will light 15,300 candles in the cemetery – one for each soldier buried there. In addition, a bugler will play “Taps” every 30 minutes during the evening and park staff posted throughout the cemetery will tell stories about some of the soldiers.
 
As this year marks the centennial of World War I, there will be a special emphasis placed upon the forty “Great War” veterans interred among the Civil War dead.
 
Fredericksburg National Cemetery is located at the intersection of Sunken Road and Lafayette Boulevard; however, those wishing to attend the luminaria may park at the University of Mary Washington lot at the corner of William Street and Sunken Road. The Fredericksburg Trolley will provide shuttle service between the parking area and the national cemetery.
 
A separate, commemorative ceremony will be held at the Fredericksburg National Cemetery on Memorial Day, Monday, May 28.
 
Please note that with the exception of service animals, pets are not permitted in the National Cemetery.
 
For additional information, call [phone].