While it may not feel like it right at the moment, warmer weather is just around the corner and with that comes a whole host of free outdoors activities in DC! One such activity that is steeped in historical significance while remaining lively and exciting for spectators is the Marine Barracks Parade. Every Friday night from early May through the end of August, the Marine Barracks on 8th & I invites DC residents and visitors to take in the “Oldest Post of the Corps”. The evening’s festivities kick off at 8:45 PM with a concert performed by the United States Marine Band then continues on with performances from the Drum and Bugle Corps, Color Guard, Silent Drill Platoon, ceremonial marchers, and of course, the official mascot Chesty XIII.
If you’re interested in attending one of the parades this year, admission is free but you must reserve your space in advance. On March 1, registration will open up; all you have to do is follow the instructions by sending an email with all of the necessary info listed here then wait for a confirmation. This is a very popular event for DC residents and visitors alike, so be sure to reserve your space as soon as possible!
For more details and a little history about the event, visit the Marine Corps website.
Here’s a couple of photos from last year: