News Release
NPS - VIP Photographer Jane Powell
Subscribe
 |
What is RSS
|
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — In commemoration of Memorial Day and as part of the nationwide America 250 observance, Stones River National Battlefield and Cemetery will host a series of commemorative events from May 23 through 26. These events invite the public to honor the men and women who died in military service to the United States and to reflect on the enduring meaning of their sacrifice.
Flag Placement on Headstones
On May 23 at 10 a.m., Stones River invites scouting and youth groups to participate in placing flags on over 7,000 headstones in the cemetery. Volunteers and organizations should register in advance at https://forms.office.com/g/Xx2VAU436x.
Participants should plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. and carpool if possible, as parking is limited at the visitor center. Please note that late arrivals may need to walk 5-10 minutes to reach the cemetery. Each group's leader must check in at a designated table located just inside the pedestrian entrance to the cemetery, where they will receive flags and section assignments.
Sunday Ceremony
On May 24, at 1:30 p.m., the Memorial Day ceremony will take place at the national cemetery rostrum. Parking will be available near the visitor center, but seating is limited, so guests may wish to bring their own seating and shade provisions.
Visitor Engagement on Memorial Day
On May 25, we anticipate hundreds of visitors walking the grounds of Stones River National Cemetery. Park staff will be on duty from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. to assist with questions and provide interpretive programs. Please be aware that parking within the cemetery is reserved only for those with accessibility needs. All other visitors should park at the visitor center and cross Old Nashville Highway using the designated lit crosswalk.
Park rangers will offer guided walks of the national cemetery at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m. Programs will begin at the visitor center flagpole.
Important Reminders
We respectfully ask visitors not to bring coins to place on headstones, as this practice can damage the historic stones and create safety hazards during mowing operations. The only decorations permitted at gravesites, aside from flags placed on Saturday, are fresh-cut flowers.
Location and More Information
The main entrance to Stones River National Battlefield is located at 1563 N. Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro. For more details, please visit the park's website at www.nps.gov/stri or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/StonesRiverNPS. We look forward to honoring the memory of those who served and hope to see you at our events.
nps.gov
About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.
Last updated: May 11, 2026