The Department of the Interior rolled out its 2026 “resident-only patriotic fee-free days,” and honestly… the whole thing feels like a bad joke told with a straight face.
They didn’t just tweak the list — they straight-up removed MLK Day and Juneteenth, two holidays that actually mean something. And what did they swap in? President’s Day and Flag Day, which, surprise surprise, also happens to be Donald Trump’s birthday. Because of course it does.
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum defended the move, dropping the line, “President Trump’s leadership always puts American families first.” Sure. Meanwhile, the announcement claims the change is about making access “affordable” for U.S. residents while making international visitors “contribute their fair share.”
But the new price tags tell the real story. Starting January 1, the Annual Pass stays $80 for residents, but nonresidents are getting hit with a $250 fee. And if they try to step foot in one of the 11 most popular parks without that pricey pass? Add $100 per person on top of the regular entry fee. The department insists the shifts ensure “American taxpayers who already support the National Park System receive the greatest benefit.”
Here’s the new lineup — whether people asked for it or not:
* President’s Day – February 16, 2026
* Memorial Day – May 25, 2026
* Flag Day / President Trump’s Birthday – June 14, 2026
* Independence Day Weekend – July 3–5, 2026
* 110th Birthday of the National Park Service – August 25, 2026
* Constitution Day – September 17, 2026
* Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday – October 27, 2026
* Veterans Day – November 11, 2026
The Interior Department says all this cash will circle back into “upgrades to visitor facilities, essential maintenance, and improved services nationwide.”
Maybe. But a lot of people aren’t just looking at the money. They’re looking at the symbolism. And removing the two major Black holidays while elevating Trump’s birthday? Yeah… folks noticed.