There are so many things to do in Washington DC, and it’s silly to live here and not take advantage of them. Silly, but too easy to do. After a week at work, and a long run (Marine Corps Marathon 10 weeks away!) on Saturday mornings, sometimes dragging me away from my couch…and my dog…is not an exciting prospect. But it seriously IS worth it to venture out to see what DC has to offer.
Every summer, on every Friday, there is a parade at the Marine Barracks in Washington DC. Located not far from the Eastern Market Metro, the Marine Barracks are beautiful. The parades only go from May 1 to August 28, and you have to request tickets in advance (here). There is actually general admission also, but it’s worth getting a ticket to know you have a seat and not have to stand in line longer.
The Marine Barracks parade is from 8:45pm to 10pm, and you can start entering the gates at 7pm. The Marines are both perfectly orderly and wonderfully polite and helpful, and do a pretty good job of entertaining you while you wait for the rest of the guests to be seated. And there are both water and restrooms available.
The Marine Barracks in Washington DC is the oldest, active, Marine Corps post. The performance includes the United States Marine Band (the one that performs for the President), the U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, and the Color Guard. Of course one of the highlights of the performance is Chesty (I think we are now on #8?) who of course is the official mascot of the barracks…a striking and strutting English bulldog. But one of the biggest reasons to go see the Marine Barracks Parade is truly to marvel at the Silent Drill Platoon. They perform an amazing routine in perfect synchronization with no verbal cues. Between the music, the scenery, the silent drill performance, and Chesty, the Evening Marine Barracks Parade is really one of the best ways to experience something very “DC” on a Friday night.
There are tons of Eastern Market restaurants to grab a bite to eat on your way to the parade, and tickets are free. So whether you are visiting DC, or live here and want to do something a little bit different on a summer Friday, check it out. Just remember, unlike many other DC experiences, the Marines are both exceptionally punctual and organized!
