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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Landmarks

Marine Barracks Washington

Established in 1801, this National Historic Landmark is the oldest post in the Marine Corps and serves as the official residence of the Commandant of the Marine Corps.

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What is Marine Barracks Washington known for?

Established in 1801, it is known as the 'Oldest Post of the Corps' and is a National Historic Landmark. It serves as the main ceremonial grounds of the Marine Corps and has been the official residence of every Commandant of the Marine Corps since 1806.

Where is it located?

The barracks is located at 8th & I Streets SE, Washington, DC.

What are the public hours?

MCCS at Marine Barracks Washington is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. It is closed on federal holidays.

Is it free to visit the parades?

Admission to both the Sunset Parade and the Evening Parade is free. However, while the Sunset Parade requires no reservations, reservations are required for the Evening Parade.

What is the Evening Parade?

The Evening Parade is a 75-minute ceremony that begins at 8:45 p.m. and is held nearly every Friday from May through August.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Located at the corner of 8th and I Streets SE, Marine Barracks Washington stands as a National Historic Landmark. Established in 1801, it is recognized as the 'Oldest Post of the Corps' and serves as the primary ceremonial grounds for the United States Marine Corps. Since 1806, the site has functioned as the official residence for every Commandant of the Marine Corps. This storied location is also the home of two elite musical units: 'The President's Own' U.S. Marine Band and 'The Commandant's Own' Drum and Bugle Corps. The barracks hosts prestigious public events that showcase military precision. The Evening Parade, held nearly every Friday from May through August, is a 75-minute ceremony beginning at 8:45 p.m. While admission to this event is free, visitors must obtain reservations to attend. Another highlight is the Sunset Parade, a 45-minute ceremony featuring the Silent Drill Platoon and the Drum & Bugle Corps. Unlike the Evening Parade, the Sunset Parade is free and does not require reservations, though it takes place at the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, starting at 7 p.m.

Visitor tips

  • Book reservations well in advance for the Friday Evening Parades held between May and August.
  • Check the MCCS public hours (6:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m. weekdays) if visiting associated facilities.
  • Plan for a 75-minute duration if attending the Evening Parade starting at 8:45 p.m.
  • Note that the MCCS facility is closed on federal holidays.

Nearby context

The barracks is situated in the Southeast quadrant of Washington, D.C., anchoring the corner of 8th and I Streets SE. This area blends military discipline with the surrounding urban landscape of the capital.

Sources

Evidence and links