Tuesday sunset parade

Question

Regarding the Marine parade at the Iwo Jima memorial - if we drive will parking be a problem? And does “sunset” mean they won’t start until sun is actually setting? What time would that approximately be in July?

Thank you!

Answer

The Tuesday Sunset Parade at the Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial) in Arlington, VA, is a popular ceremonial event, and planning ahead will make your visit much easier.

Parking: Parking can be limited because the memorial does not have a large dedicated lot for visitors during the parade. Most attendees park along nearby streets or at the Marine Corps War Memorial parking area, which is first-come, first-served. On busy summer evenings, spaces can fill quickly, so it’s a good idea to arrive at least 30–45 minutes early. Alternatives include parking at nearby Arlington National Cemetery or using a Metro station and walking a short distance to the memorial.

Timing of the “Sunset” Parade: Despite the name, the parade does not start exactly at sunset. “Sunset” refers to the general time period in the evening, and the parade typically begins a few minutes before the sun fully sets. The ceremony lasts roughly 45 minutes to an hour.

July approximate timing: Sunset in the DC area in July is around 8:30 pm. The parade usually starts shortly before this—often around 8:15–8:20 pm—but it’s wise to check the official Marine Corps website or contact the Iwo Jima Memorial Visitor Center for the exact start time on the specific Tuesday you plan to attend.

Additional tips:

Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and parking.
Bring water, as it can be hot in July.
Seating is limited, so be prepared to stand.
Check weather conditions; the parade is held rain or shine, but extreme weather may affect the schedule.

Overall, if you plan to drive, aim to arrive around 7:45–8:00 pm to ensure parking and a good view. Using Metro and walking a short distance is also a convenient option to avoid parking stress.

Tuesday sunset parade

More Washington DC Travel Questions

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions