65th Anniversary Commemorative Event

Welcome!

Freedom Riders National Monument is excited to announce a commemorative event for the 65^th Anniversary of the Freedom Rides. Join us in Anniston, Alabama, on Saturday May 9, 2026, for the events listed below. Many details are still in the planning stage, so check back for more information in the coming months. We hope to see you at this event.

Date: Saturday May 9, 2026

8 am – 12 pm: Greyhound Bus Depot (1031 Gurnee Ave, Anniston, AL 36201)

Speakers and park rangers will be at the Greyhound Bus Depot to talk about the Freedom Riders. Rangers will also lead groups from the depot to the Trailways Mural about three blocks away.

1:30 pm – 4 pm Bus Burning Site (Corner of Highway 202 and Old Birmingham Highway outside Anniston, AL)

Join the National Park Service for a commemorative event. Hear from the Superintendent and other speakers on the events of Mother’s Day, May 14, 1961. A bell ringing ceremony for the CORE riders will follow the speeches.

5 pm – 8 pm Zinn Park (Anniston, AL)

Community led event. More details to come.