Event
Fredericksburg National Cemetery Luminaria
Fee:
Free.Location: LAT/LONG: 38.000000, -77.000000
The 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 free shuttle service between the parking area and the national cemetery. Accessible parking for vehicles with state-issued accessible hangtags or license plates will be available in the Visitor Center lot at 1013 Lafayette Boulevard.
Dates & Times
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Type of Event
Description
On Saturday, May 28, the National Park Service will host the 27th annual luminaria at the Fredericksburg National Cemetery. The program runs from 8pm to 11pm, and is free to the public. In the event of rain, the event will be moved to Sunday, May 29th.
The luminaria honors those who died in the service of this country. Local Scouts will light 15,300 candles in the cemetery – one for each grave there. In addition, a bugler will play “Taps” every 30 minutes during the evening as park staff posted throughout the cemetery relate stories about some of the soldiers.
The Fredericksburg National Cemetery was established in 1866 and remained open for military burials until 1945. It holds the remains of 15,243 soldiers, sailors and Marines, most of whom died during the Civil War. At least 85% of the graves are unidentified, resulting in over 12,770 unknowns. The annual luminaria has served as a poignant tribute to the fallen since 1996.
The 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 free shuttle service between the parking area and the national cemetery. Accessible parking for vehicles with state-issued accessible hangtags or license plates will be available in the Visitor Center lot at 1013 Lafayette Boulevard.
A separate commemorative ceremony will be held at the Fredericksburg National Cemetery on Memorial Day, Monday, May 30th.
Please note that pets are not permitted in the cemetery.
More information
Reservation or Registration: No
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