For the first time in nearly 100 years, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier plaza in Arlington National Cemetery will be open to the public to walk on and lay flowers in front of the tomb as part of its centennial commemoration. The flower ceremony will start at 8am on November 9 with representatives from the Crow Nation placing flowers at the Tomb and reciting the prayer given 100 years ago by American Indian Chief Plenty Coups. There will be interpretative talks at the Memorial Amphitheatre throughout the day.

On Veterans Day, November 11, the public will be invited to observe a full honors procession (meant to replicate elements of the World War I Unknown Soldier’s 1921 funeral procession) and a flyover with aircraft from all branches of the military.

The event is free and advance registration is required. There will be free trams running for the public to access the Memorial Amphitheatre. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own flowers, but complimentary roses, daisies, and sunflowers will be distributed. All visitors must have a government-issued ID to access Arlington Cemetery.