Martial Arts History Museum Joins Blue Star Museums with Year-Round Free Admission for Military Families

The Martial Arts History Museum in Glendale, California, has been officially accepted into the Blue Star Museums program, a national initiative led by the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and thousands of cultural venues across the United States. This acceptance, announced this week, distinguishes the museum by extending free, unlimited year-round admission to active-duty military personnel and their families, going beyond the standard summer-only free admission offered by most participating museums.

The program allows active-duty service members from all branches—including the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, National Guard, and Reserves, as well as the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and NOAA Commissioned Corps—to bring up to five family members for free at any time during the year. This initiative aims to remove barriers to cultural and historical education, providing a welcoming space where military families can create lasting memories.

Museum President Michael Matsuda emphasized the personal significance of this program, noting his family's military history. His father served in the military, and his father-in-law was a member of the renowned 442nd Regimental Combat Team during World War II. "These amazing people continue to put their lives on the line every single day for all of us," Matsuda said. "They sacrifice so much for our freedom, and providing this year-round opportunity is truly the least we can do to give back and honor our military families."

By welcoming these heroes every day, the museum hopes to express deep gratitude and provide an educational experience that highlights the rich history, art, and cultural heritage of martial arts. The museum is located at 201 N. Brand Blvd., B100, Glendale, CA 91203, and more information can be found at MAmuseum.com. Donations to support the museum's mission are encouraged.

This acceptance into the Blue Star Museums program underscores the museum's commitment to honoring those who serve. The year-round free admission is a significant upgrade from the typical summer-only benefit, reflecting a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by military families. The museum's dedication to this cause is a model for other cultural institutions, demonstrating how simple gestures can have a profound impact on the well-being of service members and their loved ones.