September 5, 2023  |  Wolf Trap National Park

Ground-Breaking News

Construction vehicles preparing for the Meadow Commons, with the Filene Center in the background.

Since 1971, the concessions stand on house left, known as “Stand A” or “Stand 1” has stood in humble service to thousands of patrons each summer. As one of the oldest original buildings on Park property, it has needed an overhaul for many years. The limited kitchen and service space challenges our Food and Beverage staff; its public restrooms leave much to be desired; and the steep stairs are inaccessible to many patrons. Quite simply, the facility is well past its useful life.

The original Concessions Stand at Wolf Trap.

Following the close of the 2023 summer season, the building will be retired from duty and demolished. Site work has already begun along the Meadow to prepare for construction of an impressive replacement facility, to be named the Meadow Commons. This three-level building will benefit everyone who visits Wolf Trap.

Rendering of the Meadow Commons, viewed from the middle level.

This $15-million project has been thoughtfully planned and designed by Gensler Architects and Wolf Trap leadership and is wholly funded by donors to the Campaign for Wolf Trap: Our Next Chapter. It will greatly expand and enhance the services available to Park guests. The building’s architecture will beautifully complement the Filene Center and Pavilions, continuing the evolution of a more cohesive Park campus, and will complete the crescent of amenities surrounding the Meadow.


All-Access

Rendering of the Meadow Commons, viewed from the Orchestra section.

Perhaps the greatest and most impactful change brought about by the Meadow Commons is the addition of an elevator to connect the upper and lower levels of the Park for the first time! Patrons with mobility challenges will now be able to traverse the Park and access amenities—from the accessible parking entrance to Pavilions—without assistance, using the newly installed cross-aisle to reach the lowest level of the Commons and continuing up to the plaza via the elevator.


Take Comfort

Intermissions will be more pleasant, thanks to new and expanded restrooms for all. Notably, there will be more stalls added to the ladies’ room, as well as new family- and ADA-accessible restrooms. The total number of lavatories in the building will increase from 30 to 43. The men’s and women’s restrooms at house left in the Filene Center will also be renovated with matching fixtures as part of this upgrade.


Get Cookin’

Staff and volunteers have made the most of the Concessions facilities over the years, relying on easy-to-prepare foods. An expanded and modernized kitchen will allow for a broader menu of food and beverages and a more efficient service experience for all. The food preparation area will more than double in size.

Rendering of the Meadow Commons, viewed from the meadow path.

The Meadow Commons will offer additional Concessions windows on the Plaza level, with service access from both sides of the ticketed gate. Patrons will be able to enjoy their meals at adjacent tables before taking their seats for the performance. Down on the orchestra level, a dedicated “Drink Spot” with four points of sale will enable patrons to purchase beverages without having to return to the top Plaza for a refill.


Additional Gathering Space

An additional major donor lounge will provide a relaxing haven for the Foundation’s top supporters. This space will alleviate crowding on Encore Circle Lounge’s busiest nights and will feature amenities like a full-service bar and Concessions fare.


Join us!

Careful planning and design, collaboration with the National Park Service, and the generosity of thousands of community-minded philanthropists are making this innovative building possible. You can still join them and make an impact on the Wolf Trap experience for generations to come.

Construction vehicles in the meadow.

To participate in this historic initiative, give today to the Campaign for Wolf Trap: Our Next Chapter at wolftrap.org/campaign. We look forward to unveiling this new space for the start of Summer 2024!