Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park

From European-American entrepreneurs and explorers to American Indians and United States Cavalry, a piece of history can be found in every corner of the Yosemite National Park. The first inhabitants of Yosemite Valley were American Indians who may have lived there for as long as 6,000 years. In 1848, the discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada foothills brought thousands of prospectors to the region.

Word of Yosemite's beauty spread slowly but surely and in the mid-1800s, the first group of tourists arrived. Later, during the Civil War, Congress and President Abraham Lincoln were persuaded to grant Yosemite Valley to the state as the nation's first public preserve.

Soon there was a drive underway for federal protection of the area and this was provided by Abraham Lincoln when he signed the Yosemite Grant in 1864. This grant is regarded as the foundation upon which all state and national parks were eventually established. Finally, on October 1, 1890, Congress created Yosemite National Park. The legislation was signed by President Benjamin Harrison, and Yosemite was established as the country's third national park.

Anniversary Celebration

On October 1, 2015, a celebration will be held to observe the 125th anniversary of the establishment of Yosemite as a National Park. The park and its partners, to honor this historic anniversary, will hold a special event from dusk to dawn in Yosemite Valley. A large public ceremony is planned, for which a commemorative program will be developed. The event will feature speeches from dignitaries, sponsors and other guest speakers. There will also be food, games and a guided walk for those who wish to participate.

The Yosemite Festival

In addition, there is a broad range of events and activities throughout the year leading up to the October celebration. For example, June 27th, 2015, was the 2nd Annual Yosemite Festival. The 2nd annual festival honored the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, while the first marked the 150th anniversary of the aforementioned 1864 Grant. There are plans to continue with the Yosemite Festival on an annual basis, with a specific observation for each year's event. The focus of the third Annual Yosemite Festival in 2016 has not yet been named, but is expected to be held in June. The festival typically includes the beverage vendors, arts and crafts, history lectures, stage shows and guest speakers.

Yosemite Facelift Project

Each year, volunteers from far and wide participate in the Yosemite Facelift Project. As its name implies, the special project is aimed at cleaning up and revitalizing the Park and is the largest service event of its kind. The Facelift event begins on September 22, 2015, at 6:30 PM and commences on September 27th. However, it is also a recreational event as well as a “working vacation” as campers and other participants can enjoy live entertainment, slide shows, and food and beer provided by the New Belgian Brewing Company. If you are a nature lover and want to preserve your favorite recreation areas, you will not want to miss this event.

Artistic Displays and Opportunities in the Park

Yosemite's epic scenery offers sketching and photo opportunities to novices and professional artists alike. The Park's unparalleled beauty is a natural source of never-ending inspiration that freely lends itself to the eye of the artist.

Art classes are offered on a regular basis by the Yosemite Conservancy. If you have always wanted to learn to draw or paint or even simply take home a unique and special memento of your time at Yosemite, you should definitely visit the Conservancy.

If you enjoy making one-of-a-kind artistic creations, you should also drop in to the Yosemite Art Center, where the entire family can make crafts with the help of experienced teachers. Among the many things from which to choose are sun catchers, bookmarks, greeting cards, woven items, mobile, key chains and beaded jewelry. All ages are welcome for such classes.

If you prefer to purchase gift items and artwork, you can obtain your favorite Yosemite scene in the form of a canvas print, greeting card, T-shirt, throw pillow or framed etching. You can also purchase Ansel Adams photo prints featuring magnificent Yosemite scenery. Such items can be purchased at the Yosemite Conservancy, the Art Center and other places in the Park.

Stars Over Yosemite

If you are an astronomy fan, you will not want to miss a trip to Glacier Point, where the Yosemite Star Party is held each year. Scheduled for August 26th and 27th, 2015, official stargazing begins at twilight and goes to approximately 11 PM, after which the night is yours to continue watching the lovely twinkling lights or simply spend time with a significant other or family member. You will find space to camp approximately nine miles from the Point in the Bridalveil Creek campground. However, tents and van campers are recommended, as camping space fills up quickly. Admission is free for those who are willing to set up their telescopes for public use during the event.

Ranger and Interactive Programs

Yosemite provides a vast array of inspiring and interactive programs. You can learn about Yosemite on walking tours, by attending lectures, or speaking to Rangers as you travel through the park. Bus tours focused on nature and history are also available, or you can choose to visit the Yosemite Theater where interesting films and multimedia presentations can be viewed. The Ansel Adams Gallery photography walk is also popular among Park enthusiasts and is a must-see for any Adams fan.

Yosemite National Park is a collection of historical and cultural treasures, and offers an unforgettable experience to all visitors. At the 125th Anniversary celebration, you will have the opportunity to create the memories of a lifetime.