Country-Wide Naturalization Ceremonies to Coincide with 100th Anniversary of the National Park Service

On August 25, 2016, the National Park Service (“NPS”) will celebrate its 100^th anniversary.  As a birthday present representing its partnership with NPS, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) will conduct 16 naturalization ceremonies at national parks across the United States, welcoming 450 new United States citizens.  USCIS plans to hold at least 100 naturalization ceremonies in national parks throughout the year.

According to NPS Director Jonathan B. Jarvis, “National parks tell the stories of notable people, great achievements, and monumental events that shaped our nation, our government, and our society.  These magnificent places belong to all Americans and we invite everyone, especially our newest citizens, to Find Your Park.”

Since 2006, when USCIS and NPS first partnered to promote awareness and understanding of citizenship, NPS has hosted naturalization ceremonies in such locations as the rim of the Grand Canyon, the base of Mount Rushmore, Ellis Island, and the Lincoln Memorial.  The naturalization ceremonies on August 25 will be held at locations such as Grand Canyon National Park, the World War II Memorial, Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, Biscayne National Park, Fort Smith National Historic Site, Big Thicket National Preserve, and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.  For a complete list of naturalization ceremonies held at national parks this year, please visit

https://www.uscis.gov/us-citizenship/naturalization-ceremonies/naturalization-ceremonies-national-park-service-designated-sites.