National Park Week
— hosted at National Parks across the United States 📍
📅 April 19 – 27, 2025
Love national parks? There’s a whole week for that!
Celebrate the great outdoors during National Park Week, happening April 19–27, 2025, with events and special programs hosted at national parks across the United States.
Love exploring America’s great outdoors? National Park Week is your chance to celebrate the beauty and diversity of over 400+ national parks, happening April 19–27, 2025!
This year’s theme, “National Park Playlist,” highlights the unique sounds, stories, and experiences that make each park unforgettable. From hiking scenic trails to discovering historic landmarks or soaking in nature’s melodies, it’s the perfect opportunity for all ages to connect with our cherished outdoor spaces, whether they’re iconic or off the beaten path.
🌟 Find Your Park:
Discover parks near you, explore the theme, and access the full schedule of events:
🔗 nps.gov/national-park-week
🎶 Create Your National Park Playlist: Start exploring and queue up unforgettable adventures during this week-long celebration.
Image designed by the National Park Service
🌟 Why Celebrate?
National Park Week is more than just an invitation to visit. it’s a celebration of our shared heritage, culture, and love for the natural world. Join ranger-led events, discover community programs, and learn how the National Park Service helps protect these special places for future generations.
👉 Get the full schedule, find a park near you, and explore the theme at:
🔗 nps.gov/national-park-week
Six Easy Ways to Celebrate
- Visit Free on April 19: Kick off National Park Week with waived entrance fees at📍 All U.S. National Parks
- Share Your Adventure: Follow the fun at National Parks on social media using #NationalParkWeek. Join conversations with our parks and programs and share your own moments about your love of parks to inspire others to enjoy the great outdoors.
- Find a national park such as Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley and come visit! Entrance fees to national parks are waived on April 19, 2025, to kick off the celebration. 📍 Across All U.S. National Parks
- Junior Ranger Day: Kids, grab your family and friends to come out for National Junior Ranger Day! You can also earn your official Junior Ranger badge any time at most parks throughout the week.
- Explore Local Landmarks: Look around your community to learn how National Park Service programs and partners are involved in your community. Find national historic landmarks or national natural landmarks near you. Or enjoy recreational opportunities and spaces enhanced by programs and partners.
- Volunteer & Partner Opportunities: Get involved as a volunteer or partner! Many parks are also celebrating National Volunteer Week.
✨ Travel Tips for Visitors
Planning a glowing getaway to Redding for the Lantern Festival? Here’s how to make your trip smooth, scenic, and unforgettable:
🚗 Getting There:
Redding is conveniently located off I-5 in Northern California, about 2.5 hours north of Sacramento and 3.5 hours from the San Francisco Bay Area.
Flying in? The Redding Regional Airport (RDD) offers direct flights from San Francisco, Burbank, and Seattle.
🏨 Where to Stay:
Stay close to the magic!
Book a room near downtown Redding or along the Sacramento River Trail for easy access to Turtle Bay.
Popular nearby options include the Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge, local B&Bs, and riverfront vacation rentals.
🚶♀️ Getting Around:
Parking is available on-site at Turtle Bay and nearby lots—arrive early for best spots.
Redding’s River Trail system makes walking or biking a scenic and relaxing option, especially around sunset.
🍴 Before or After the Festival:
Make it a full evening!
Grab dinner at Redding’s local favorites like Mosaic, Market Street Blade & Barrel, or Wilda’s Grill.
Or snack onsite—food trucks and pop-up vendors are available on select nights inside the festival grounds.
🎒 What to Bring:
Comfortable shoes for walking
A jacket or layers (evenings can get breezy)
Your camera or phone for all the stunning photo ops
A sense of wonder—this is an experience like no other!
🗓️ Bonus Tip:
Make a weekend of it! Explore nearby outdoor gems like Whiskeytown Lake, Lassen Volcanic National Park, or the Sundial Bridge—all within a short drive from the festival.