Celebrate the Glorious Fourth!

Join us for an old-fashioned Fourth as we celebrate Independence Day at Fort McHenry! 

Special programming will include:

10:00 a.m. “Raise the Colors!” – Join a park ranger and kickoff Independence Day by hoisting the grand “Star-Spangled Banner” flag o’er the ramparts!  

Location: Star Fort

11:00 a.m. "Defenders Through the Ages" -On this program we'll explore the many defenders who served at Fort McHenry. From the artillerists who manned the guns at Fort Whetston, to those soldiers and sailors who protected Baltimore and inspired the writing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" during the War of 1812, to the U.S. soldiers who preserved the Union during the Civil War, to those who led the movement to preserve Fort McHenry as a national park in the early 20th century, visitors can explore how Fort McHenry has shaped American history and inspired Americans for 250 years. 

Location: Chesapeake Map  

12:00 p.m. “Stirring Fife and Thunder of the Drum” - Join the Fort McHenry Guard Fife and Drum Corps as they perform a fife and drum in the Star Fort.

2:00 p.m. “Celebrating the Glorious Fourth”  - How did they celebrate July 4th in the early Republic?  The living history team will present live music, musket, and cannon demonstrations. Join a park ranger for a special reading of the Declaration of Independence to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence!

5:00 pm – Evening Flag Change - Assist in the evening flag change.

Location: Star Fort

Fee Information

Fees are required to enter the Star Fort. Fee information is available at https://www.nps.gov/fomc/planyourvisit/fees.htm