Watch Live: Memorial Day 2025 Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The marble crypt at the heart of Arlington National Cemetery is drawing record digital attention in the lead-up to Memorial Day 2025, as Americans search for meaningful ways to honor fallen service members. Below is everything you need to know about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier this holiday weekend, from its storied history to on-site visitor tips and livestream options for those commemorating remotely. H2: A Century of Sacrifice in One Sacred Shrine Dedicated on Armistice Day 1921, the white Colorado Yule marble sarcophagus holds the unidentified remains of an American soldier from World War I. Crypts for Unknowns from World War II and the Korean War were added in 1958; an empty niche honors those still missing from Vietnam. Together, the four crypts symbolize all U.S. service members who never returned home. H2: Memorial Day 2025 Wreath-Laying Ceremony—What to Expect • Time: The ceremonial wreath is traditionally placed at 11 a.m. EDT on Memorial Day (Monday, May 26, 2025). • Participants: The President of the United States, the Secretary of Defense, senior military leaders, Gold Star families and invited veterans’ organizations. • Livestream: Arlington National Cemetery and the Department of Defense plan to stream the event on their official YouTube and Facebook channels, allowing worldwide participation. H2: Changing of the Guard—Schedule & Etiquette The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, “The Old Guard,” has guarded the Tomb 24/7 since 1937. • Summer hours (April 1–Sept 30): Guard changes every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., then hourly overnight. • Etiquette: Remain silent, stand, and remove hats. Flash photography and phone calls are discouraged. H2: Visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in 2025 • Location: Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. • Transportation: Metrorail’s Blue Line to Arlington Cemetery Station; limited on-site parking fills quickly on holiday weekends. • Security: All visitors pass through airport-style screening. Prohibited items include large bags, weapons and opened beverages. • Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly ramps lead to the plaza; courtesy shuttle stops near the Memorial Amphitheater. H2: Ways to Pay Respect If You Can’t Be There in Person 1. Virtual Wreath Program: The Army’s online portal lets users dedicate a digital wreath with a personal message. 2. Moment of Silence: Pause at 3 p.m. local time for the National Moment of Remembrance. 3. Educate & Share: Use #TombOfTheUnknownSoldier and #MemorialDay2025 on social platforms to share historical facts or family stories of those who served. H2: Frequently Asked Questions Q: How long has the Tomb been guarded without interruption? A: Since July 2, 1937—nearly 88 years of continuous vigil, through weather extremes and national crises. Q: Can visitors lay their own wreath? A: Authorized groups may apply months in advance through Arlington’s Commemorative Events office; individual visitors may place flowers along the retaining chain. Q: Is there an entrance fee to Arlington National Cemetery? A: No. The grounds, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, are free and open to the public 365 days a year. As Memorial Day 2025 approaches, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier remains a focal point for national reflection—a solemn reminder that freedom often comes at an immeasurable price. By attending in person, tuning in online, or simply observing a quiet moment of gratitude, Americans everywhere can ensure the Unknowns are never forgotten.