歪歪漫画

BEMIDJI 鈥擳he Beltrami County Historical Society recently announced that it has joined the 2025 Blue Star Museums program, offering free admission to active-duty military personnel and families this summer.

The program will start on Armed Forces Day on May 17 and end on Labor Day on Sept. 1.

Blue Star Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense and more than 2,000 museums nationwide. The program honors the service and sacrifice of active-duty military families by providing meaningful opportunities to connect with cultural institutions during the summer, a release said.

Although federal funding for the NEA has been discontinued, the Beltrami County Historical Society Board of Directors voted unanimously to continue forward with the program. Their decision reflects a strong local commitment to accessibility, cultural enrichment and honoring military families.

"As the stewards of Beltrami County鈥檚 stories, we are honored to welcome military families to explore the region鈥檚 history through our exhibits and collections," Emily Thabes, executive director of the Beltrami County Historical Society, said in the release. "Our participation in the Blue Star Museums program is one way we can express our gratitude to those who serve and their families.鈥�

To receive free admission, active-duty military personnel and up to five family members should present a valid military ID upon entry. Eligibility includes those currently serving in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, as well as members of the National Guard, Reserves, the U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps and the NOAA Commissioned Corps.

For more information and a complete list of participating museums, visit

Located in the historic 1912 Great Northern Depot in downtown Bemidji, the Beltrami County History Museum features exhibits spanning the area鈥檚 history from its earliest natural and cultural beginnings to the present day.

For local museum hours, current exhibits, and upcoming events, visit or call (218) 444-3376.