NPS - National Park Service
04/29/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/29/2026 08:41
Celebrate the Tradition of Decoration Day at Big South Fork with Cemetery Quest Event
News Release Date:
April 29, 2026
April 29, 2026
Contact: Chris Derman, 423-569-9778
Oneida, Tennessee: Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area will celebrate the deeply rooted tradition of Decoration Day on the Cumberland Plateau with its sixth annual Cemetery Quest event. The event begins at 9 a.m. ET on Saturday, May 2 at Bandy Creek Visitor Center. Following a guided booklet, participants can visit cemeteries throughout the region in search of site-specific information.
Participants who successfully complete their cemetery quest by 4 p.m. will earn a unique patch and 20 points toward the GO BIG 2026 Challenge. The GO BIG Challenge is a year-long, self-paced challenge that encourages visitors to connect with Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Obed Wild and Scenic River and Manhattan Project National Historical Park.
Participants can also complete the cemetery quest throughout May. All participants who complete the Cemetery Quest by 4 p.m. on May 31 will receive a unique 2026 Cemetery Quest patch. Pick up your Decoration Day Cemetery Quest booklet at Bandy Creek Visitor Center the morning of the event. Or download the booklet from the park website after 9 a.m. ET on May 2 by visiting https://www.nps.gov/biso/planyourvisit/decoration-day-cemetery-quest.htm.
The Decoration Day Cemetery Quest is one of many ways to learn about the Big South Fork throughout 2026. From new park waysides to special events and nights under the stars, there's an activity for everyone. Visit Bandy Creek Visitor Center for a copy of this year's Go BIG Challenge booklet, information on upcoming programs and annual photo contest. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call the park at 423-286-7275.
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.
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