Last updated: May 20, 2025
Thing to Do
May 31 Anniversary
NPS
Saturday, May 31, 2025, is the 136th anniversary of the Great Johnstown Flood of May 31, 1889.
The Visitor Center will be open from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. At 4:07 p.m., the time that the floodwaters reached Johnstown, a wreath will be placed at the North and South Abutments on the remains of the dam. This will be broadcast live on our Facebook page.
Each year on May 31, 2,209 luminaries are lit to honor the flood victims. The luminaries are placed on the North and South Abutments and around the Visitor Center, and each bag will contain the name of a flood victim. The luminaries will be lit from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
A shuttle will run between the Visitor Center parking lot and the North Abutment from 7:00 pm until 10:00 pm. This takes visitors to the North Abutment to view the luminaries. The North Abutment parking lot will close to vehicles. Luminaries will also be visible from the Visitor Center area.
No reservations are required for any events on May 31. Johnstown Flood National Memorial is free of charge.
The Visitor Center will be open from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. At 4:07 p.m., the time that the floodwaters reached Johnstown, a wreath will be placed at the North and South Abutments on the remains of the dam. This will be broadcast live on our Facebook page.
Each year on May 31, 2,209 luminaries are lit to honor the flood victims. The luminaries are placed on the North and South Abutments and around the Visitor Center, and each bag will contain the name of a flood victim. The luminaries will be lit from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
A shuttle will run between the Visitor Center parking lot and the North Abutment from 7:00 pm until 10:00 pm. This takes visitors to the North Abutment to view the luminaries. The North Abutment parking lot will close to vehicles. Luminaries will also be visible from the Visitor Center area.
No reservations are required for any events on May 31. Johnstown Flood National Memorial is free of charge.
Details
Activity
Museum Exhibits
Pets Allowed
Yes
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
The Visitor Center and parking lots are accesssible.