May 13, 2025 - News

National Police Week brings thousands to D.C.

Anna Spiegel

Thousands of law enforcement officers and their family and supporters gather for the National Police Week 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the National Mall May 13, 2019 in Washington, DC. Police, political leaders and family members of those officers who died in the line of duty gathered on the Nat — Thousands of law enforcement officers, families and supporters gather for the Candlelight Vigil on the National Mall in 2019. Photo: by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

It's National Police Week — meaning you might be noticing frequent sirens and an influx of uniformed officers around D.C.

The big picture: The annual honoring of law enforcement, with a focus on those killed or disabled in the line of duty, brings an estimated 40,000 people to D.C. from around the country, according to organizers.

You might spot motorcycle units, some 2,000 officers and cyclists on the Police Unity Tour, and large police escorts accompanying families of the fallen to memorial events.
The annual candlelight vigil, which draws thousands to the National Mall to honor slain officers, is scheduled for Tuesday at 8pm.

Zoom in: President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in 1962. The annual memorial service launched 20 years later.

The event has grown to include a variety of gatherings, from a gala to a survivors' conference for family members and colleagues.

What's ahead: Other keystone events this week include the National Peace Officers' Memorial Service at the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. See a full schedule here.

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National Police Week brings thousands to D.C.

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