By: Kevin Lilley

A program offering free admission to uniformed services personnel and their families to museums across the country will launch May 15 – Armed Forces Day – and last through the summer.

The annual Blue Star Museums program typically covers more than 2,000 museums, zoos, and nature centers across the country. This year's participants can be found at this link.

From May 15 through Sept. 6, a servicemember and up to five family members will receive free admission at participating museums. The deal is available to all currently serving personnel, whether on active duty or in the reserve component (regardless of status). Servicemembers do not have to visit the museum for family members to receive the discount.

Visitors must show a Common Access Card or dependent identification card to claim the benefit. Children under 10 are eligible for the free admission without ID if they come with a parent who has service/dependent ID. More eligibility details are available at this link.

Servicemembers and families may use the benefit more than once, at multiple locations.

Veterans and retirees are not included in the program, but many participating museums provide admission discounts to members of these groups. Please check with museums in advance to determine what discounts are available and what proof of service is required.

Blue Star Museums began offering summertime museum admissions in 2010. It’s a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the DoD, along with the individual museums. If you’re involved in a museum and want to inquire about participating, email bluestarmuseums@arts.gov for details.