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The United States Naval Academy has always been a highly desirable wedding destination. The Navy Chapel, Miller Chapel, and St. Andrews Chapel are steeped in history and tradition, making wedding ceremonies feel regal and elegant. Traditionally, after the grand and inspiring ceremony—made all the more poignant by the powerful pipe organ—the couple exits under an Arch of Swords that symbolically and spectacularly pledges the military’s fidelity to their protection. A legacy is continued and a legacy has begun.
Related: Navy Wedding Tradition: History of the Arch of Swords.
Romance on the Yard
Throughout the year, the Yard is typically home to around 85-90 weddings. In fact, during the summer, the USNA Main Chapel hosts multiple weddings a day from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., with impressive military precision. Not only do these festive rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, receptions, and even day-after brunches find their perfect backdrop against the breathtaking history and pomp of the Yard, they also enjoy stunning natural and architectural scenery and the top-notch food and service provided by Naval Academy Catering. Additionally, hosting an event here directly supports the Brigade of Midshipmen.
The New Naval Academy Club
To make the special event even more memorable, the Naval Academy Club used the opportunity, when COVID-19 abruptly halted one wedding season, to orchestrate a large-scale remodeling of the facilities that host wedding receptions for parties with up to 200 guests. The new decor in the elegant military officer’s club reflects a more modern yet traditional style, while remaining rooted in the Navy and Marine Corps heritage with gorgeous artwork that tells the story of the Academy.
Related: The Alley: A Must See (and Taste) Stop on the Yard
Naval Academy Catering provides outstanding food and refreshments for the festivities. An inside scoop says the most popular delicacy for wedding parties is the generously sized filet mignon and local Maryland crab cake dish, both nods to the rich food heritage of the region. Couples can also choose from the wide array of catering offerings for delicious hors d'oeuvres, main dishes, and desserts. The menu always gets rave reviews.
Since weddings at the Naval Academy are typically destination weddings, we always roll out the red carpet to ensure guests get the full Navy experience while on the Yard. We provide customized Naval Academy tours that highlight memorials, traditions, shopping, dining, sporting venues, the USNA Museum, and other places special to the couple, so they can enjoy these unique spots with their guests. We also bring people together to celebrate with bridal luncheons and rehearsal dinners before the wedding. After the big event, we happily offer our legendary Sunday brunch. Your guests can easily enjoy an entire weekend on the Yard—and they'll be talking about it for years to come.
A Gift to the Midshipmen
As a token of love, thanks, support, and celebration, couples often provide fun-filled and memorable gift bags from the USNA Gift Shop or Navyonline to their wedding parties and guests. From Navy scarves and earrings, to customized golf balls and Navy shot glasses, to Maryland-infused gifts like Chesapeake Bay nuts, these welcome bags are a special touch that elevate a weekend that is already unforgettable.
When you get married on the Yard, take Naval Academy tours, or dine or shop on the Yard, you’re giving to the midshipmen who give their all for our freedom. Proceeds provide funding for extracurricular activities like cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more - so your wedding gives back to the Brigade.
Start Your Dream Marriage Here
To begin your dream marriage, eligible couples (which include a U.S. Naval Academy alumnus/alumna, a member of the military staff, faculty member, or local active duty military member) can email weddings@usna.edu. Now’s the perfect time to live your dream wedding and start your life together on the Yard!
