Parks

This is where the nation comes to remember and where history is made. As “America’s Front Yard,” the National Mall and Memorial Parks is home to many of our country’s most iconic memorials telling the story of people and events that shaped us as a nation. Each year, millions of people come to recreate, commemorate presidential legacies, honor our veterans, and make their voices heard.

Map showing location of park.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial framed by cherry blossoms

The National Park Service Announces 2026 Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom Forecast as Nation Prepares for America’s 250th Anniversary

2026-03-05

The Department of the Interior and National Park Service today announced that peak bloom for the iconic cherry trees surrounding the Tidal Basin and National Mall is projected to occur between March 29 – April 1, with exact timing dependent on weather conditions. Once peak bloom begins, the blossoms typically remain on the trees for seven to 10 days.

Members of the military in uniform holding flags in front of a large statue of Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln's Birthday to be Observed at the Lincoln Memorial on Feb. 12

2026-01-27

The National Park Service and the Lincoln Birthday National Commemorative Committee will observe the 217th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln during a ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial on Thursday, Feb. 12 at 10:45 a.m.

Cherry blossom trees in bloom along a body of water

National Park Service seeks public comment on plan for future of the Tidal Basin

2026-01-26

The National Park Service is accepting public comment on a Development Concept Plan and Environmental Assessment that will guide the long-term management of the Tidal Basin, focusing on transportation, conservation, tree preservation, protection of natural and cultural resources, visitor experience, recreation, infrastructure, security, and more.

Temporary cellular tower in a field with the Washington Monument in the background

National Park Service Announces Opportunity for Communications Infrastructure Plan on the National Mall and Surrounding Park Areas

2026-01-16

The National Park Service invites qualified entities to submit a proposal to develop communications infrastructure within the National Mall and surrounding park areas in Washington, D.C. Proposals must be submitted by Thursday, Feb. 16, 2026.

Ornamental fountain among granite columns, with collonaded building in the distance

National Park Service Announces Closure, Construction at the World War II Memorial

2026-01-08

The National Park Service announced today the World War II Memorial will close on January 9 ahead of a construction project to modernize fountains and lighting at the memorial. The work will address aging infrastructure, improve reliability, and enhance the appearance of one of the nation’s most visited memorials.