As we prepare our hearts for the celebration of the birth of our Savior, we invite you to be part of the special events here at the Basilica! Hear sacred music for the season in our Christmas Concert and Choral Meditations on the Nativity, join us for Mass throughout Advent and Christmas, and more! Learn more about what’s happening at the Basilica this December – virtually and in person
Mass and Vespers – Each Sunday of Advent
As we anticipate the birth of the Messiah, join us in person or online for Mass, livestreamed each Sunday of Advent beginning November 30, at 12:00 p.m., and at 2:30 p.m. in Spanish. Vespers will be livestreamed each Sunday of Advent at 4:00 p.m. in the Great Upper Church.
Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception – December 8
We invite you to join us in celebrating the Patronal feast day of the Basilica and of the United States of America, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. The 12:10 p.m. Mass will be celebrated by His Eminence Christophe Cardinal Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, and livestreamed on nationalshrine.org/mass. The 2:30 p.m. Mass in Spanish celebrated by The Most Reverend Evelio Menjivar-Ayala, Auxiliary Bishop of Washington, will also be livestreamed.
Advent Rorate Mass – December 19
You’re invited to join us in the Crypt Church on Friday, December 19, at 7:00 a.m. for the celebration of the ancient Advent tradition of the Rorate Mass in honor of the Blessed Mother. Dating back to the eighth century, this tradition takes its name from the incipit of the Introit of the Fourth Sunday of Advent and the Advent votive Masses of the Blessed Mother. This event will also be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in person.
Choir of the Basilica Christmas Concert 2025 – December 20
On Saturday, December 20, at 6:00 p.m. in the Great Upper Church, the Choir of the Basilica will present a concert titled: “Follow the Star: Sacred Choral Music for the Christmas Season.” Just as the brilliant star once guided the Wise Men from the East to the Christ Child, our hope is that this beautiful sacred music from across the centuries will lead you toward a renewed encounter with Christ. The concert is free and open to the public, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. All are welcome to attend this evening of sacred choral works capturing the spirit of the Christmas season in all its radiance, poetry, solemnity, and joy.
Blessing of the Bambinelli and Lighting of the Christmas Tree – December 21
Following the annual Papal tradition in Saint Peter’s Square, the National Shrine will host its annual Blessing of the Bambinelli on Sunday, December 21, 2025, following the 4:30 p.m. Mass. The faithful are invited to bring the Baby Jesus from their Nativity scenes to the Hall of American Saints to be blessed on this Fourth Sunday of Advent and to participate in the lighting of the Christmas Tree.
The Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas Eve) – December 24
Join us at the Basilica on December 24 as we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, with Mass and musical meditations on the Nativity. The 10:30 p.m. Mass will be celebrated by His Eminence Christophe Cardinal Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States. Both the Choral Meditations and the 10:30 p.m. Mass will be livestreamed on nationalshrine.org/mass.
2025 Christmas Dinner – December 25
On Christmas Day, the Basilica will provide more than 2,000 meals to those in need who live in the District of Columbia and surrounding areas. Meals will be available for pick-up or delivery only. To request a Christmas Day dinner, please call 202-526-8300. All meal requests must be received by Friday, December 12. Volunteers are also needed to fill many different positions.
Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord – December 25
Join us for Mass at the Basilica to rejoice in the birth of our Savior! The 12 Noon Mass will be celebrated by His Eminence Robert Cardinal McElroy, Archbishop of Washington, and livestreamed on nationalshrine.org/mass. The 2:30 p.m. Mass in Spanish celebrated by The Most Reverend Evelio Menjivar-Ayala, Auxiliary Bishop of Washington, will also be livestreamed.
