News Release

National Park Service Commemorates 137th Anniversary of the Johnstown Flood

A commemorative wreath on the remains of the dam

NPS Photo

News Release Date: May 26, 2026

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Johnstown Flood National Memorial will commemorate the anniversary of the May 31, 1889, tragedy with special events, including 2,209 luminaries to honor flood victims. On that fateful day 137 years ago, the South Fork Dam broke sending 20 million tons of water down the Conemaugh Valley to Johnstown. 

On May 31, the park visitor center will be free of charge and open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. The park film, Black Friday, will play throughout the day at quarter after each hour. At 4:07 p.m., the time the floodwaters reached Johnstown, park rangers will place commemorative wreaths on the remains of the dam. The wreath laying will be broadcast live on the park's Facebook page. 

Beginning at 7 p.m., 2,209 luminaries on the remains of the South Fork Dam and around the visitor center will be lit to honor those killed by the flood. Each luminary will have the name of a flood victim on it and remain lit until 10 p.m. Park grounds remain open until the conclusion of the luminaries. 

“This solemn remembrance is a true community event, made possible through the support of so many, including park staff, volunteers, scout troops, and students from Forest Hills Elementary School,” said Doug Bosley, the park’s chief of interpretation.  

Parking is available at the visitor center and South Abutment. A shuttle will run between the visitor center and the North Abutment through the duration of the luminaries. Luminaries will also be visible from the visitor center area.