NPS Photo
The National Park Service was created on August 25, 1916, to "preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations." In 2026, the National Park Service turns 110! Over the hundred plus years, we've grown into more than 400 national parks and many programs that reach communities around the country—and even the world!
10 for 110
Here are ten suggestions for celebrating our 110th birthday this year. Or you can keep going with 110 ideas of of your own!
- Visit a national park. Entrance fees are waived for our birthday! Remember to check your park's website to plan ahead.
- Post your national park celebration on social media using #NPSBirthday, #NPS110, and #NationalParkWeek.
- Download the NPS App and send your family and friends virtual postcards using your own favorite photos of parks.
- Go on a ranger program or talk to a ranger in a park.
- Hit a trail on foot, bike, or boat.
- Visit a monument, memorial, or hallowed ground to reflect.
- Earn a Junior Ranger badge.
- Join our team as a volunteer for an event or sign up for year round.
- Party past sundown to see the night sky.
- BYOBC. Bring Your Own Birthday Cake and have a picnic! Feed the rangers, not the wildlife.
Stay Connected
Find virtual ways to stay connected with more than 400 national parks across the country and park party games that you can do anywhere, anytime.
Join us on National Park Service social media channels where you will find events, games, and more fun!
Stay connected with national parks across the country from anywhere in the world with online resources and virtual experiences.
Test your knowledge or learn something new about national parks with games and challenges for all ages.
Last updated: September 25, 2026