Please join us on a field trip to the Washington National Cathedral on 24 January 2026. This is a great time of year to photograph the Cathedral with the winter sunlight streaming in through the stained glass windows and projecting beautiful colors across the cathedral’s walls.

It turns out this is a special week. In addition to the opportunity to tour the Cathedral during the day and photograph the light through the stained glass they are going to clear our the Cathedral’s chairs to create an open, walk-through experience for the evening called the Luxmuralis Light Show. These are two different timed, ticketed events. You can do one or both. You will require tickets to each one. See below for details.

Option 1: Self-Guided Tour

They are going to clear our the Cathedral’s chairs to create an open, walk-through experience. Explore the most beloved Cathedral features at your own pace during our posted sightseeing hours. Your ticket includes a self-guided app with audio tour and brochure, plus access to: exhibits, main and lower levels, and Tower Observation Gallery when available. Explore some of the most beloved Cathedral features at your own pace, including the world famous Space Window, Canterbury Pulpit, and more. 

Meet for the self guided tour which start at 12:00am and end at 5:00pm. The Cathedral closes promptly at 5 pm.

Tickets are $17. 

You can buy tickets to the self guided tours here.

Tickets are available now. Don’t wait to buy them.

Option 2: Luxmuralis Light Show

Experience the acclaimed light and sound installation and see the Cathedral nave like never before, as Time by Luxmuralis transforms sacred architecture into a living canvas of vivid projections and original music. Join us on a dazzling journey of color, story, and sound. The Cathedral’s chairs will be cleared to create an open, walk-through experience. Guests will journey through the aisles and chapels, ending in the nave’s central aisle, surrounded by light and sound.

General Admission tickets are offered January 24 and issued in 15-minute increments starting at 6 pm and available through 9:15 pm.

Attendees should check their emails closer to the event for updated information.

Meet for the 6:00pm Luxmuralis Light Show. If the 6PM sells out, you can buy tickets to a later entry time.

Tickets are $27

You can buy tickets to the January 24 6:00 Luxmuralis Light Show here.

Tickets are available now. Don’t wait to buy them.

Photography Policy

• Amateur photography: If you’re wandering the grounds and snapping photos with your cellphone or personal point-and-shoot, you do not need a permit.
• When taking photos inside the Cathedral, please follow these guidelines: 
  • No photography or video during worship services or concerts.
  • Follow the guidance of Cathedral staff and signage.
  • Visitors may be limited in the use of photo equipment such as tripods or selfie sticks 
  • Don’t make another person the primary subject of a photo without their express permission. Many people visit the Cathedral for private prayer; please respect their personal space and privacy.