Visitor Center Dedication and Grand Opening
- Sunday, October 11, 2026
- Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial, 4192 NE Eagle Harbor Drive
- Dedication Ceremony begins at 12:30 p.m.
- Public Open House from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Why This Moment Matters
Join the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial Association as we celebrate the completion of the Exclusion Memorial’s final phase: the new Visitor Center and Plaza. More than 20 years in the making, the Memorial is the work of survivors of World War II Japanese American incarceration, their descendants, the Bainbridge Island community, and many partners who believed this history must be remembered. It is a place of remembrance, healing, and reflection—and a reminder of both the fragility of civil liberties and our shared responsibility to protect them.
Come experience the Visitor Center’s striking design, the newly accessible paved plaza, and a site transformed for the future. The Visitor Center will become the home of education at the Memorial, welcoming students, families, and visitors for generations to come. Together, we will honor those who made this place possible and celebrate what the Memorial says about who we are as a community—and what we choose to stand for.
Schedule
Free Parking Shuttle – 10:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Complimentary shuttle service will run between the American Legion Hall (7898 NE Bucklin Hill Rd, Bainbridge Island) and the Exclusion Memorial. Parking at Pritchard Park is reserved for survivors and others requiring ADA accessibility. We kindly ask guests carpool, use the shuttle, and park safely.
Preview Reception by Invitation Only – 11:00 a.m.
Public Dedication Ceremony – 12:30 p.m.
Public Open House – 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Plan Your Visit
Ferry Sailings – Recommended Seattle departures are at 9:35 a.m., 10:40 a.m. Check here for the current Sunday ferry schedule.
Local Transportation – There is generally no public transportation available on Sundays on Bainbridge Island.
Free Parking Shuttle – 10:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Complimentary shuttle service will run between the American Legion Hall (7898 NE Bucklin Hill Rd, Bainbridge Island) and the Exclusion Memorial. The ride takes approximately 6 minutes. We kindly ask guests to carpool, use the shuttle, and park safely. Please allow yourself adequate time to be on-site for the 12:30 p.m. Dedication Ceremony
ADA Accessible Parking – Guests requiring accessible parking may drop-off and park in the Pritchard Park/Exclusion Memorial parking lots. Please email [email protected] to reserve a space.
No Pets Allowed – Due to the potential audience size and the fragile new plantings and landscaping in the Plaza, pets will not be allowed at the Dedication.