Photo by Susan Post.

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum will celebrate its grand opening this weekend on Saturday, October 27.

The dedication and grand opening ceremony starts at 2 p.m. and will feature remarks from United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie and a keynote address by General Colin Powell. The ceremony will also feature veterans, military and community leaders, regalia and performances and is expected to be attended by a crowd of over 4,000. All seated passes have been reserved for the ceremony, but standing room is available.

The grand opening festivities also include free, timed museum passes throughout the weekend. Registration is required and entrance is still available on Sunday, October 28.

The 53,000 square foot NVMM will highlight the individual stories and shared experience of veterans throughout history and pay tribute to the sacrifices of service members and their families. Exhibits will feature photos, letters and personal effects, multi-media presentations, and interactive elements.

NVMM located at 300 W. Broad St. The museum will begin its regular hours on Wednesday, October 31 and be open Wednesday – Sunday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For more information, visit nationalvmm.org.