National Parks are offering free admission today in honor of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, and some are hosting special events that will be organized in the spirit of freedom, equality, and human rights.
“National parks throughout the country provide inspiration to reflect on issues that resonated with Dr. King, including freedom, human rights, and social justice,” said National Park Service Acting Director David Vela on Monday, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. “We remember his life and legacy through programs and outreach that elevate his dream of inclusiveness for all.”
“To commemorate the Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, January 20th, the @NatlParkService will host special events, including day of service opportunities, and FREE admission to all national parks! Find a park near you!” the National Park Service said in a statement on Twitter.
To commemorate the Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, January 20th, the @NatlParkService will host special events, including day of service opportunities, and FREE admission to all national parks! Find a park near you!https://t.co/HDt0RLLoUD#FindYourPark pic.twitter.com/eEpO4HXnz6
— National Park Service (@NatlParkService) January 17, 2020
Martin Luther King Day is the first of five free admission days that the National Park Service has planned for this year:
- Jan. 20: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
- April 18: First day of National Park Week
- August 25: National Park Service Birthday
- Sept. 26: National Public Lands Day
- Nov. 11: Veterans Day
Parks open today include Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, Zion National Park in Utah, Crater Lake National Park in Oregon, Yellowstone National Park in Montana and Idaho, Yosemite National Park and Joshua Tree in California, the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and dozens more.
Some national monuments and historical sites are also free of charge Monday. A full list of national parks, monuments, and sites free on Martin Luther King Jr. Day by state can be found here.