Did Trump Change MLK Day? How the Federal Holiday May Differ
The recent changes to federal holiday policies have sparked discussions among Americans, particularly regarding Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK Day) and Juneteenth. In 2026, the National Park Service announced significant alterations to its free admission policy, opting to remove both dates from its lineup of fee-free days. Instead, visitors will now enjoy complimentary access to national parks on June 14, President Donald Trump’s birthday, which coincidentally falls on Flag Day.
Changes to Federal Holidays
As of January 1, 2026, the observance of MLK Day will continue on the third Monday of January, which falls on January 19, 2026. However, the National Park Service will no longer offer free admission on this day. This policy change was confirmed by the U.S. Department of the Interior, highlighting the administration’s authority to issue executive orders affecting the management of federal holidays.
Impact on National Park Access
With the removal of MLK Day and Juneteenth from the list of fee-free days, visitors will now be required to pay regular entrance fees on these significant holidays. There are currently 63 national parks in the United States, predominantly located in the western region. In Mississippi, several national parks and monuments are managed by the National Park Service.
Cost of Annual Passes
- Annual passes for U.S. residents will cost $80.
- Annual passes for nonresidents will cost $250.
- Visitors without an annual pass will pay $100 to enter 11 of the most popular national parks.
Fee-Free Days in 2026
In 2026, national park visitors will only benefit from free admission on the following days:
- President’s Day – February 16
- Memorial Day – May 25
- Flag Day/Trump’s Birthday – June 14
- Independence Day Weekend – July 3–5
- National Park Service Day – August 25
- Constitution Day – September 17
- Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday – October 27
- Veteran’s Day – November 11
Federal Holidays Observed in 2026
The following federal holidays will be recognized in 2026:
- New Year’s Day – January 1
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day – January 19
- Washington’s Birthday – February 16
- Memorial Day – May 25
- Juneteenth – June 19
- Independence Day – July 3 (observed)
- Labor Day – September 7
- Columbus Day – October 12
- Veterans Day – November 11
- Thanksgiving Day – November 26
- Christmas Day – December 25
Additional Observations
On MLK Day, mail services will be disrupted as post offices remain closed. While FedEx will operate with modified services, UPS will not conduct pickups or deliveries. Furthermore, banks and stock markets will also be closed in observance of this federal holiday.
These changes highlight ongoing adjustments in federal holiday observances and their practical implications for citizens across the nation.
