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California Offers Free Park Entry on MLK Day

1/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

California will offer free vehicle entry to over 200 state parks on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 19, announced by Governor Gavin Newsom of California.
The program is funded by the California State Parks Foundation to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Newsom criticized the Trump administration for eliminating free admission on MLK Day and Juneteenth, and for designating his birthday as a free-entry day.

History

Historical Context

In 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill establishing Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal holiday, recognizing King's vital contributions to the civil rights movement. The holiday, first observed on January 20, 1986, reflects the values of organizations like the NAACP. California's recent initiative to offer free vehicle entry to state parks on this day continues to honor King's legacy of inclusivity and access.

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Story summary

California will offer free vehicle entry to over 200 state parks on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 19, announced by Governor Gavin Newsom of California.
The program is funded by the California State Parks Foundation to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Newsom criticized the Trump administration for eliminating free admission on MLK Day and Juneteenth, and for designating his birthday as a free-entry day.

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