National Park Trust Celebrates 16th Anniversary of National Kids to Parks Day on Saturday, May 16, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 12, 2026
Washington, D.C. (May 12, 2026) – On Saturday, May 16, 2026, National Park Trust will commemorate the 16th anniversary of Kids to Parks Day. This grassroots national day of park appreciation encourages kids and families to discover, explore, and celebrate their local, state, and national parks.
“Kids to Parks Day is celebrating its Sweet 16, celebrating 16 years of park celebration and appreciation on May 16th. This initiative has inspired families to get outside, connect with nature, and support the parks they love. This year, that mission is more important than ever.”
Grace Lee, executive director of National Park Trust
Kids to Parks Day has grown in engagement every year, with millions of families planning park outings, and hundreds of state and local parks hosting events.
“Spending time enjoying our public lands and parks plays a vital role in children’s health and well-being. We also believe that kids who grow up exploring parks are more likely to become the future stewards these spaces need to thrive,” added Lee.
To learn more about Kids to Parks Day, find events near you, and download free park activity guides for all ages, visit parktrust.org/kids-to-parks-day.
ABOUT NATIONAL PARK TRUST
National Park Trust’s mission is to preserve parks today and create park stewards for tomorrow. Since 1983, the Park Trust has acquired many of the missing pieces of our national parks, benefiting 58 national park sites across the country. Our national youth education and family initiatives, including our Buddy Bison, College Ambassador, and Military Family Programs, and National Kids to Parks Day, serve tens of thousands of children annually and cultivate future park stewards. We believe our public parks, lands, and waters should be cared for, enjoyed, and preserved by all for current and future generations. Find out more at parktrust.org.
MEDIA CONTACT: Ivan Levin at 540.818.5818 or [email protected]
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