Military Ceremonies at the Museum

Retirement, Promotion and Reenlistment Ceremonies

There isn’t a more fitting place than the National Museum of the Marine Corps for your promotion, reenlistment or retirement ceremony. Imagine your ceremony with the backdrop of Marine Corps history. There is no charge for this privilege but there are some guidelines to follow to make it the best possible experience for you while still allowing Museum visitors to have a wonderful experience.

Ceremony Requirements:

NO WALK IN CEREMONIES PERMITTED. Ceremonies must be scheduled in advance.
Please note that ceremonies are only allowed in Leatherneck Gallery and outside of the Museum. Ceremonies are NOT allowed in the historical galleries.
Ceremonies begin at 0930 and must conclude by 1630. Promotions are scheduled for 30 minutes. Retirements are afforded 60 minutes.
You may arrange colors. (We can provide the National Ensign and the Marine Corps flag and their respective bases.) We neither post GO/Flag Officer standards within the museum nor do we have a Navy flag available for use.
We can provide a podium. (Microphones and speakers are your responsibility.)
You may bring soft, appropriate music. (Sound system and extension cords are your responsibility.) Live music is conditionally allowed; please ensure to include this in your request.
Due to a limited set up space, chairs are conditionally permitted and prior approval is required. Please note that a ceremony with over 100 chairs requires the Director’s approval.
Please provide working party for set up and break down of chairs, podium, and colors.
No outside food or beverages permitted.

Receptions During Hours:

We can host a morning reception within the Tun Tavern or Devil Dog Diner
between 0800 and 1700.
Receptions at the Museum are managed by the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. For more information please contact the Special Events team at 703-649-2350 or events@marineheritage.org.

After Hours Capabilities 1700 until 1900:

We can host an exclusive reception from 1700 until 1900 for a minimal fee.

On the balcony overlooking the Leatherneck Gallery
60 seated guests/ 100 standing reception

Within Tun Tavern
49 seated guests
Within the Devil Dog Diner
150 seated guests/ 182 standing reception
Scuttlebutt Theatre
93 guests
Receptions at the Museum are managed by the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. For more information please contact the Special Events team at 703-649-2350 or events@marineheritage.org.