Last updated: May 11, 2025
Thing to Do
Fredericksburg National Cemetery Luminaria
NPS Photo
The Fredericksburg National Cemetery Luminaria is an annual event featuring over 15,000 lanterns in the cemetery – one for each soldier buried in the cemetery grounds. This event takes place on the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend. The luminaria honors soldiers who have died in the service of this country.
Saturday, May 24, 2025
8 pm - 11 pm
Where
The cemetery is located at the intersection of Sunken Road and Lafayette Boulevard.
Attendees 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 Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center lot at 1013 Lafayette Boulevard.
About the Luminaria
Join us for the 30th annual luminaria at the Fredericksburg National Cemetery on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Visit the cemetery between 8 pm to 11 pm to experience the luminaria. This event is free to the public. In the event of rain, the event will be moved to Sunday, May 25th.
During the luminaria, 15,300 candles brighten the Fredericksburg National Cemetery. Each candle represents a soldier buried in the cemetery and honors those who died in the service of this country. Throughout the evening a bugler will play “Taps” every 30 minutes as park staff posted throughout the cemetery relate stories about some those interred here.
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. Learn more about the Fredericksburg National Cemetery.
This event would not be possible without the assistance of local Scouts, who volunteer to set up and light the luminarias.
A separate commemorative observation will be held at the Fredericksburg National Cemetery on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26th.
Please note that pets are not permitted in the cemetery.
Details
Duration
30-120 Minutes
Visitors may spend as much or as little time in the cemetery until the event ends.
Activity
Arts and Culture
During the event, visitors may wander through the Fredericksburg on their own. Park staff will be onsite to provide guidance and interpretation.
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are not allowed in the Fredericksburg National Cemetery.
Activity Fee
No
This event is free and open to all members of the public.
Location
Fredericksburg National Cemetery
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.
Reservations
No
Season
The luminaria takes place once a year, on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.
Time of Day
Night, Dusk
The luminaries are most visible after dark. On this one day a year, the cemetery remains open after sunset.
Accessibility Information
Accessible parking for vehicles with state-issued accessible hangtags or license plates will be available in the Visitor Center lot at 1013 Lafayette Boulevard.
Fredericksburg National Cemetery is located atop Marye's Heights. Reaching the cemetery requires walking up a short, but steep hill. For the event, we will have golf carts available for transportation up to the cemetery for those who require assistance.
We strive to make our programs as enjoying and fullfilling for as many people as possible. If you or a member of your party needs any accomodations or has any concerns, feel free to contact the park and we will do our best to meet your needs.
Fredericksburg National Cemetery is located atop Marye's Heights. Reaching the cemetery requires walking up a short, but steep hill. For the event, we will have golf carts available for transportation up to the cemetery for those who require assistance.
We strive to make our programs as enjoying and fullfilling for as many people as possible. If you or a member of your party needs any accomodations or has any concerns, feel free to contact the park and we will do our best to meet your needs.