Philadelphia, PA (May 21, 2024) – The National Constitution Center today announced its partnership with Citizen Travelers, the nonpartisan civic engagement initiative of Travelers, to offer free admission and special programming to museum attendees during Memorial Day weekend, May 25-27.
“Citizen Travelers recognizes that our democracy is stronger at every level when we have informed, engaged and committed citizens,” said Janice Brunner, group general counsel and head of civic engagement at Travelers. “We are pleased to partner with the National Constitution Center this Memorial Day to provide an opportunity for the public to learn more about our nation’s history and the important role we all play in helping to sustain and strengthen our democracy.”
On May 25-27, the National Constitution Center will honor the nation’s fallen service members by highlighting the history of Memorial Day, taking a closer look at famous memorials and monuments, and uncovering the complexities of how a nation remembers. In addition to access to all the Center’s exhibits and artifacts, programming includes flag ceremonies, discussions on U.S. memorials through history and across the country, and family-friendly workshops and lectures, as well as crafts for learners of all ages. Travelers employees will also be on site to engage with visitors and support the Center’s programming. Find more information and a full program listing HERE.
Memorial Day Weekend Activities, May 25-27, 2024
Memorial Day: American Made and Re-Made Featuring Robert J. Kodosky
Saturday, May 25 | 12:45 p.m. ET
For many Americans, Memorial Day signifies the “unofficial start of summer.” It begins the season of “baseball, hot dogs and apple pie.” The holiday is rooted though in somber grounds. It began as Decoration Day to memorialize America’s Civil War dead, which resulted in both reconciliation and division. The history of Memorial Day provides insight into our own time and affords us chance for reflection about the power of the past, the costs of liberty and the enduring struggle for civil liberties, as well as offering insights to inform our commemoration of Memorial Day today. Robert J. Kodosky chairs the department of history at West Chester University where he teaches courses in American military and diplomatic history and serves as the faculty adviser for the Student Veteran Group. He is also the author of Psychological Operations American Style: The Joint United States Public Affairs Office, Vietnam and Beyond, Tuskegee in Philadelphia: Rising to the Challenge, and co-author of Construction Ahead: Making American History Since 1865.
Daily Programs
Memorials: How a Nation Remembers
*Check Visitor Guide for Daily Showtimes
Explore some of the most recognizable memorials and monuments in the United States, from the Lincoln Memorial and Little Bighorn, to the Vietnam War Memorial and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. Learn about the history of memorials, how memorials and monuments remember and honor the past, and consider why these memorials are important.
The History of Memorial Day: Trivia Game
*Check Visitor Guide for Daily Showtimes
This trivia-based program explores the history of the Memorial Day observances in the U.S. Discover the holiday’s origins during Reconstruction—when it was known as “Decoration Day”—its expansion following World Wars I and II, and how it became an official holiday in the 1970s. The program also highlights how communities across the country observe Memorial Day.
The American Flag: History and Etiquette
*Check Visitor Guide for Daily Showtimes
How much do you know about the Stars and Stripes? Discover the history of the American flag during our interactive flag show. Together we’ll uncover the flag’s symbolism and learn how to properly raise, display, and fold the flag during a flag raising ceremony.
Make a Memorial Craft
10 a.m.-4p.m., Grand Hall Lobby
Can you think of a figure or event from history that needs to be remembered? Visit our creation station to design your own memorial for historic figures and events.
Poppy Pins
10 a.m.-4 p.m., Grand Hall Lobby
How did poppies become the symbol of Memorial Day? Stop by our poppy pin station to uncover the connection between the poppy and the armed forces. Create your own poppy pin to honor those who have served and died for our country.
Flag Folding Craft
10 a.m.-4 p.m., Grand Hall
Learn how to properly fold an American flag with our make-and-take craft! Color your own flag and then fold it up into the traditional triangle.
Memorials Scavenger Hunt
10 a.m.-3 p.m., Grand Hall Lobby
Take this map of Philadelphia memorials with you as you explore the city! Discover the stories of the soldiers, presidents, and historical freedom fighters memorialized in these statues.
Online Programs
Live From the Museum: The Unknown Soldier Abroad Olympia
Friday, May 24 | Noon ET
Register Now
Join us and learn the story of the Unknown Soldier aboard Olympia, led by Independence Seaport Museum's Manager of Historic Ships, Greg Williams. Discover the story about the unspeakable perils of World War I and follow along as we share the drama of the return of the Unknown Soldier's remains and how this story had fallen into obscurity, until now. Presented in partnership with the Independence Seaport Museum.
Civic Story: How America Remembers
Friday, May 24 | 11 a.m. ET
Live ASL Interpretation Available
Register Now
Join in a lively conversation and explore some of the most recognizable memorials and monuments in the United States, from the Lincoln Memorial and Little Bighorn, to the USS Arizona and the Vietnam War Memorial. Learn about the history of memorials, how memorials and monuments remember and honor the past, and consider why these memorials are important.
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About the National Constitution Center
The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia brings together people of all ages and perspectives, across America and around the world, to learn about, debate, and celebrate the greatest vision of human freedom in history, the U.S. Constitution. A private, nonprofit organization, the Center serves as America’s leading platform for constitutional education and debate, fulfilling its congressional charter “to disseminate information about the U.S. Constitution on a nonpartisan basis.” As the Museum of We the People, the Center brings the Constitution to life for visitors of all ages through interactive programs and exhibits. As America’s Town Hall, the Center brings the leading conservative and liberal thought leaders together to debate the Constitution on all media platforms. As a Headquarters for Civic Education, the Center delivers the best educational programs and online resources that inspire citizens and engage all Americans in learning about the U.S. Constitution. For more information, call 215-409-6700 or visit constitutioncenter.org.
