Washington National Cathedral Bells to Ring in the New Year at Midnight

At midnight New Year's Eve, the Washington National Cathedral will ring its bells for 30 minutes to celebrate the arrival of 2012. The cathedral began this centuries-old tradition when the bells were first installed in 1964, according to a statement from the cathedral.

For approximately one hour from 10:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. the bells will chime in a half-muffled quarter peal to mourn the passing year, which presented significant new challenges for the cathedral after an earthquake severely damaged the monumental structure.

Then again at midnight, the bells will ring out for half an hour to celebrate 2012.

“The start the New Year echoes the message of Christmas: that hope, peace, and goodwill be with all people,” said the Rev. Canon Jan Naylor Cope, Cathedral vicar, in a prepared statement.

Should you miss the ringing on New Year's Eve, the Cathedral will also celebrate 2012's arrival with bells on New Year's Day. Following the 11:15 a.m. Eucharist service, the Washington Ringing Society will attempt a full peal lasting approximately three and a half hours, advises the cathedral.