National Park Service Birthday

Birthday cupcake next to a ranger hat

NPS Photo

Come join our birthday celebration on August 25! 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." 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!

Ways to Celebrate

  • Visit in person. There are more than 400 national parks of different shapes, sizes, and things to do. Check the calendar below for parks hosting special birthday events.
  • Follow on social media. Join the birthday fun on social media using #NPSBirthday. Find official National Park Service channels, many of which will have activities special activities or posts for our birthday.
Video screenshot of people looking up at the night sky
"sPark Connections"

National parks are extraordinary places to discover and enjoy. How do you connect with your national parks?

Video screenshot of a group of women and girls standing with a Rosie the Riveter statue
"Your Park Story"

We asked you to share your park story and here's some of what we heard.

Video screenshot of a person on rollerskates near a mountain ridge line
"What's Your Wow?"

In a throwback to our 106th birthday, we asked you to share your "WOW" moments...and you delivered!

A Virtual Party

Join our birthday celebration from anywhere in the world, including home. 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.

Dinosaur handing out a brochure at an entrance station booth
Social Media

Join us on National Park Service social media channels where you will find events, games, and more fun!

Ranger giving a virtual science program in front of a big canyon
Find Your Virtual Park

Stay connected with national parks across the country from anywhere in the world with online resources and virtual experiences.

Infographic with text "National Parks Games and Challenges" with illustrations of parks
Games and Challenges

Test your knowledge or learn something new about national parks with games and challenges for all ages.

Find Events

Celebrate the National Park Service's birthday on August 25! Find a park near you or explore in-park and virtual events hosted by parks across the country. Set this calendar to August to find events for our birthday.

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By Park

By State

By Event Type

 

Want to volunteer? Volunteer events will soon display directly on the NPS Event Calendar. Until then, visit Volunteer.gov to find ways to volunteer!

REPEATING EVENTS
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Last updated: June 6, 2025