The 2026 changes mark a sharp shift in the park system’s traditional civil-rights observances, prompting criticism from civil rights groups and Democratic lawmakers.
The Trump administration is reshaping when Americans can access national parks for free, adding President Donald Trump’s birthday as a new fee-free day while eliminating Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth, according to the updated 2026 National Park Service calendar.
The removals mark a major departure from the 2025 schedule, which included several long-established civil-rights–related observances. Civil rights leaders and Democratic lawmakers quickly condemned the change, saying it undercuts holidays honoring Black American history and contributions.
Trump’s birthday — June 14, which also coincides with Flag Day — will now be a fee-free day for the first time. Other additions include Constitution Day, the 110th anniversary of the National Park Service, and the birthday of President Theodore Roosevelt.
The agency also shifted certain observances to broader federal holidays, such as Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, and a three-day Independence Day weekend.
Veterans Day is the only date that remains unchanged from both years.
CIVIL RIGHTS LEADERS & DEMOCRATS CRITICIZE REMOVALS
FOX 5 DC reported that civil rights organizations reacted with concern.
National Parks Conservation Association spokesperson Kristen Brengel said eliminating MLK Jr. Day is troubling, noting that it had become a popular “day of service” for community groups conducting volunteer projects in national parks.
Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) criticized the revisions sharply on X:
“Let’s be clear here: both MLK Jr. Day and Juneteenth were free entry days last year. The President didn’t just add his own birthday — he removed both of these holidays that mark Black Americans’ struggle for civil rights and freedom. Our country deserves better.”
The White House has not yet responded to media requests for comment.
