Papal Visit Day 1 Briefing: Francis to Arrive in the United States

The pontiff lands at Joint Base Andrews at 4 p.m. Tuesday for his first visit to the U.S.

Pope Francis arrives Tuesday from Cuba for his first trip to the United States, a six-day visit that will take him from the White House in Washington, D.C., to the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia. He will speak to the U.S. Congress, address the United Nations in New York and give a speech on religious liberty at Independence Hall before heading back to Rome.

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Here's what to expect on Tuesday when the pope lands just outside of Washington, D.C.:

Arrival at Joint Base Andrews, 4 P.M.

Pope Francis will be greeted by President Barack and Michelle Obama and Vice President Joe and Dr. Jill Biden at Joint Base Andrews, which is located in Prince George's County, Maryland.

The event is closed to the public, but there are a few other fortunate people who will join the official welcoming party, including some D.C.-area Catholic school students.

Want to Watch the Arrival?

We will cover the pope's arrival live with livestreams on our website and in our app. Click here for full coverage of the papal visit. 

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Chance of Traffic Delays: Moderate to High

Rolling road closures will precede the presidential motorcade out to Andrews and back to Washington.

The pope does not have any public events Tuesday. However, Massachusetts Avenue, the busy road outside the Vatican's Apostolic Nunciature, or embassy, will close to northbound traffic Tuesday afternoon and stay closed through the visit. See all road closures here.

Check out these tips on how to get around. Still have questions? Here's what you can and can't do during Francis' visit to D.C. 

Washington, D.C., Forecast

Highs in the mid-70s and overcast, according to Storm Team4. There is small chance of morning rain, but sunshine is set to return to the area late Tuesday afternoon after Pope Francis' arrival. Click here for an hourly forecast. 

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