Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine preserves the story of American resilience and service. National parks like Fort McHenry offer places for reflection and connection to the people, places and events that shaped the nation’s history. NPS / Madelyn de Manincor

May 22, 2026 - WASHINGTON — This Memorial Day, the National Park Service invites Americans to spend time in the places where our nation’s stories of service, sacrifice and remembrance live on. 

On Monday, May 25, 2026, entrance fees will be waived for U.S. residents at all National Park Service sites that normally charge an entrance fee, making it easier for families, veterans and communities to visit national parks and reflect together. Other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may still apply. Memorial Day is one of eight patriotic fee-free days offered in 2026. 

“Memorial Day reminds us that freedom has always carried a cost,” said Jessica Bowron, Comptroller Exercising the Delegated Authority of the Director of the National Park Service. “Across the National Park System, visitors can experience the places where Americans served and sacrificed in defense of our nation. We invite everyone to spend this day honoring those who gave their lives, reflecting on our shared history and connecting with the parks and memorials that help preserve these stories for future generations.” 

From battlefields and military forts to national cemeteries, memorials and historic hometown landscapes, national parks preserve many of the places where America’s military story unfolded. These places continue to offer opportunities for remembrance, healing, learning and connection. 

Parks across the country will mark Memorial Day with ceremonies, volunteer opportunities, ranger programs and special commemorations, including: 

• At Andersonville National Historic Site, visitors can take part in a Memorial Day ceremony and flag placement on May 23, followed by Taps Across America in the national cemetery on Memorial Day. 

• At Vicksburg National Military Park, park staff and volunteers will place flags in the national cemetery and host commemorative programs throughout Memorial Day weekend as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary year. 

• At Antietam National Battlefield and other national cemeteries across the park system, staff, volunteers and community members will continue the tradition of placing American flags at gravesites and gathering for moments of remembrance. 

• In Washington, visitors can spend the day at iconic memorials honoring generations of Americans who served, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial and the World War II Memorial. 

Current military members, veterans and Gold Star families are also welcomed year-round through the America the Beautiful military pass programs, which provide free access to national parks and other public lands. 

With more than 400 national park sites across the country, there are countless ways to spend Memorial Day in places that connect us to America’s history, ideals and enduring spirit. 

To find a Memorial Day event near you visit www.nps.gov/subjects/npscelebrates/memorial-day.htm. 

 Source: NPS