top of page
  • Facebook
  • Linkedin
  • X
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
 250 EXPERIENCE
AN AMERICAN STORY TOLD IN MUSIC & PAGEANTRY

A celebration of service, heritage and freedom in the heart of the nation's capital. Three performances over two unforgettable days.

PERFORMANCES

THREE SHOWS

VENUE

LISNER AUDITORIUM

DATES

JULY 17 TO 18, 2026

three-stars_1235.png

AN AMERICAN STORY

TWO AND
A HALF CENTURIES,

ONE
UNFORGETTABLE NIGHT.

This is the story of America, told the way only The Washington Tattoo can tell it. More than 200 military musicians and international artists, gathered at Lisner Auditorium for a tribute to the nation's resilience, service and shared identity.

 

Presented as part of the national America 250 commemoration, the production blends historic tradition with modern storytelling, dramatic lighting and a finale celebrating the enduring spirit of America. Pageantry, precision, and the kind of music that reminds you why this country, is worth celebrating.

"A once-in-a-generation celebration of heritage and unity in the heart of our nation's capital."

Three performances. One unforgettable experience. The most ambitious staging in the Tattoo's history, built for America's big birthday.

COOSE YOUR PERFORMANCE

THREE SHOWS. ONE CELEBRATION.

Each performance carries its own character. Pick the night that fits, or come back for more than one.

FRIDAY EVENING

17

JULY, 2026

EVENING PERFORMANCE

post-show Reception with VIP purchase

An inspiring evening of patriotic music, dance and precision military displays. Opening night, the full ceremonial weight of the production, with VIP reception access.

SATURDAY MATINEE

18

JULY, 2026

MATINEE PERFORMANCE

A family friendly matinee showcasing incredible performers from around the world. Ideal for younger guests, with the same world class artists and full production value.

SATURDAY EVENING

18

GRAND FINALE

JULY, 2026

EVENING PERFORMANCE

post-show Reception with VIP purchase

A spectacular grand finale celebrating America's 250th with powerful music and pageantry. The closing performance, the biggest staging, the loudest applause. VIP reception included.

FEATURED PERFORMERS

THE VOICES OF A NATION

Nearly 200 military musicians and international artists on one stage, telling the story of America.

NO. 01

GRAMMY AWARD WINNING

Powwow drum group bringing the Indigenous voice of America to the stage.

NO. 02

UNITED STATES ARMY

A revolutionary tradition unbroken since 1960, in the uniform of the Continental Army.

NO. 03

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

The Marine Corps' premier ceremonial musical unit, performing for presidents since 1934.

NO. 07

A TRIBUTE TO SACRIFICE

A living tribute to the World War One generation, in period uniform with period sound.

NO. 08

FROM AUSTRALIA

Award winning highland dancers traveling halfway around the world to celebrate America.

NO. 09

ARIZONA'S PREMIER PIPE BAND

Preserving the Scottish culture through the performance and education of traditional music.

NO. 10

CAPITAL TRADITION

A living tribute to the World War One generation, in period uniform with period sound.

NO. 11

VOICES OF SERVICE

From America's Got Talent to the Tattoo stage, a voice that carries the weight of service.

NO. 04

UNITED STATES ARMY

The musical ambassadors of the Army, an ensemble of remarkable range and craft.

NO. 05

UNITED STATES NAVY

The Navy's premier jazz ensemble, swinging through the great American songbook.

NO. 06

UNITED STATES AIR FORCE

Bayonet drill at full speed and full discipline. Easily the most photographed unit in the building.

NO. 12

INTERNATIONAL COLLECTIVE

Highland dance reinvented, an international collective pushing the form forward.

MORE THAN A SHOW

THE HEALING POWER OF MUSIC.

The Washington Tattoo is a Veteran led 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Internationally acclaimed for high energy productions that combine military precision with powerful music and pageantry, the Tattoo is also something else, an evidence based program that helps veterans, first responders and at risk youth through music. Every ticket purchased supports that work. Every performance carries that purpose

Our flagship wellness program for veterans and first responders living with PTSD and TBI, rebuilding strength through music and connection.

Our youth program using music to inspire growth and confidence in young people from underserved communities.

Lisner Auditorium.jpg

THE VENUE

LISNER AUDITORIUM

GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIERSITY

730 21st Street NW

Washington, D.C. 20052

A 1,500 seat hall in the center of Foggy Bottom, blocks from the White House, the State Department and the National Mall. There is no more fitting room in America for what we are about to do.

Reserve your seat for The Washington Tattoo 250 EXPERIENCE

bottom of page