U.S. Capitol Police have implemented additional security measures ahead of Sunday's National Memorial Day Concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
The annual concert, hosted by actors Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna, will begin at 8 p.m. and is aired across the country on PBS. Gates will open at 5 p.m. and attendees can access the West Lawn through any of four public entry points. Those points are:
- First Street and Constitution Avenue NW
- Third Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW
- First Street and Independence Avenue SW
- Third Street and Maryland Avenue SW
Bags, coolers, backpacks, and closed containers will be searched. Outside food is allowed, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own water supply.
Items below are prohibited by U.S. Capitol Police:
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Pets (service animals are allowed)
- Bicycles
- Firearms and ammunition
- Explosives (including fireworks)
- Knives, blades, and other sharp objects
- Laser pointers, signs, and posters
- Mace, pepper spray, sticks and poles
- Electric stun guns
- Martial arts weapons or devices
- Oversized umbrellas (radius of greater than 36 inches when open)
- Pocket or hand tools
- Sealed packages, large boxes, duffel bags, and suitcases
Due to the concert, the following street closures are in effect until 4 a.m. Monday
- First Street between Independence Avenue SW and Constitution Avenue NW
- Pennsylvania Avenue NW between First and Third Streets NW
- Maryland Avenue between First and Third Streets SW
First Street between Garfield Circle and Peace Circle will be closed until 7:00 p.m. Monday.