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The National Cathedral lights up as one of the unconventional features, considering it’s the nation’s national cathedral and church. And it’s one I call home so I know it intimately.
During the year you can find it lit up with all kinds of surprises during the holidays and local impromptu events like the Washington Nationals taking home the win. ⚾️
You can still see the traditional Ex Nihilo tympanium scene lit up, where God breathed in earth (and light) out of nothing…
And in the day it’s all lit up through the stained glass windows. And to kids, the National Cathedral is known for its stain glassed space window that’s easy to find inside and the obscure Darth Vader grotesque that’s hard to find on the exterior. In case you’re wondering, that was a sculpture winner from a kid’s compettion that the National Geographic World magazine put out in the 1980’s.
And throughout the week, you can take a tour of the cathedral, that’s the nation’s symbol of peace and unity on your visit. And sometimes even a Tour & Tea where you sit seeing above the roof and looking out the window. 🫖
And learn all about the church that’s also home to so many special national events that the Presidents past and present attend.
It’s a modern cathedral built in the 19th century, so you’ll find all kinds of light up surprises. Downstairs isn’t your typical catacomb crypt you’ll find in many large churches. It’s much happier. You’ll find…
A large gift bookstore that’s an extension from the small one upstairs. And down the “secret passageway” stairs, you don’t want to miss seeing the celebration of life remembrance chapels.
On certain days of the month, you can find a labyrinth maze that’s meant to be a self-discovery moment…
The National Cathedral Lights also represents an opportunity for personal growth as it’s also known as the Center for Prayer and Pilgrimage. And in this maze you’ll go on your own inner journey, traveling on feet as fast or slow as you want.
This could be a wellness or sacred retreat. You’ll see others doing the same and sometimes there are classes you can attend online or in person. Just remember, you’re never alone!
And if you’re visiting from out of town and need best DC restaurant for groups and DC hotel recommendations that are a short drive or Uber ride from the Cathedral, these are my insider picks for you. 😊
