We are only a few days from the NPS Centennial celebration on August 25, 2016!
The NPS wants you and every American to join the birthday bash. Founder’s Day parties, naturalization ceremonies, cake, and commemorative hikes are some of the many events planned around the country. Every one of the more than 400 park service units will have a special centennial event this week. Better yet, the NPS is so eager to celebrate they are letting everyone join the fun for free!
In 2016 the parks will offer 16 free entrance days including three this week. Visitors who approach a park gate Thursday August 25 to Sunday August 28, 2016 will not be charged admission. The free entrance days are part of the “16 in 2016” initiative to make the parks as accessible as possible during the centennial year.
127 of the more than 400 parks in the National Park Service charge visitors an entrance fee. While the fees are comparatively low ($3-$30), the park service recognizes that these protected spaces belong to all Americans. 100 years ago the National Parks were founded on the idea that everyone has the right to enjoy our wilderness areas and historical landmarks. They are not reserved for the wealthy or for the profit of a few.
“16 in 2016” – NPS Centennial Fee Free Days
Here is the schedule of fee free days for the 2016 NPS Centennial:
January 18: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
April 16 through 24: National Park Week
August 25 through 28: National Park Service Birthday
September 24: National Public Lands Day
November 11: Veterans Day
To find the nearest national park service unit to you, use our Find Your Park feature at the top, or search nps.gov.
