Hawaii Volcanoes National Parks Joins Other National Parks Waiving Entrance Fees Veteran’s Day Weekend

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park joins all 398 national park units across the country in waiving entrance fees for the upcoming Veteran’s Day weekend, Nov. 10-12.

On the rainforested trail near Thurston. NPS Photo/Jessica Ferracane

“We are indebted to the sacrifices our veterans have made for our country’s freedom and heritage,” said Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando. “The National Park Service invites all veterans to reconnect with their country through their national parks this weekend, and throughout the year,” she said.

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, which counts dozens of veterans among its employees and volunteers, is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The park offers more than 150 miles of hiking trails and many opportunities to appreciate the volcanic landscape, the pristine native environment and the Hawaiian culture that define this magnificent World Heritage Site. More than a dozen free interpretive programs are offered daily, and special events, including ‘Ike Hana No‘eau cultural workshops, After Dark in the Park presentations, hula kahiko performances, and Nā Leo Manu “Heavenly Voices” concerts, are ongoing. Check www.nps.gov/havo for information for all events.

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is one of five national park units on the Island of Hawai‘i. Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is also free of charge Veteran’s Day weekend. There is no admission at Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, or along the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail.

Information on special offerings at parks nationwide is available at http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm.

The National Park Service has posted a video about veterans on YouTube: http://pacificislandparks.com/2012/11/06/veterans-day-2012-national-park-service/