National Park Service to Commemorate President Lyndon B. Johnson’s 118th Birthday with Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony

Contact: Cynthia Dorminey, 830-868-7128

JOHNSON CITY, Texas - The National Park Service invites the public to honor the legacy of our 36th president at the annual wreath-laying ceremony marking the 118th anniversary of President Lyndon B. Johnson's birth. This commemorative event will take place at 10:00 am on Thursday, August 27, at President Johnson's gravesite on the LBJ Ranch, a central part of Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.

The ceremony, which continues a tradition began by Lady Bird Johnson in 1973, will feature the presentation of a memorial wreath by a representative from Joint Base San Antonio. This time-honored observance offers visitors an opportunity to reflect on President Johnson's life, leadership, and enduring impact on the nation.

Mark K. Updegrove, noted author and presidential historian, will deliver the keynote address. Updegrove has dedicated much of his career to chronicling and interpreting the American presidency. From 2009 to 2017, he served as the director of the LBJ Presidential Library and is currently the Chairman and CEO of the LBJ Foundation. He is the author of six books on the presidency, serves as the presidential historian and a political analyst for ABC News, and hosts the national PBS series "Live from the LBJ Library with Mark Updegrove." Over the course of his career, Updegrove has interviewed seven US presidents, giving him a uniquely informed perspective on Johnson's place in history.

To attend the wreath-laying ceremony, visitors should first stop at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park to pick up a free vehicle permit and map. The state park visitor center will open at 8:30 a.m. The LBJ Ranch gate opens at 9:00 a.m., and the Johnson Family Cemetery is located just inside the ranch entrance. Guests are encouraged to allow ample time for travel and parking to ensure arrival at the cemetery before the 10:00 a.m. start of the ceremony.

nps.gov

Celebrating Our Nation's 250th Anniversary The National Park Service is playing a leading role in the celebration and commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence. These efforts support Executive Order 14189 -Celebrating America's 250th Birthday, which calls for "a grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026." Throughout the country, national parks will host hundreds of 250th anniversary programs, events, and exhibits, including many sites with direct connections to the formation of the country.

About the National Park Service: Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov .