Defenders' Day 2022![]() Known as Baltimore's oldest holiday, Defenders' Day commemorates the anniversary of the successful defense of Baltimore in 1814 and the writing of the nation's national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." ![]() Schedule of Events
Friday September 9, 2022
Saturday, September 10, 2022Park Hours of Operation 10:00 a.m. Dress Parade and Morning Flag Change
6:00 p.m. Future Soldier Swearing-In Ceremony, hosted by Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin, commanding general, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and U.S. Army Military District of Washington, featuring local recruits from the Baltimore Recruiting Battalion
Sunday, September 11, 2022Park Hours of Operation ![]() Parking and TransportationFree parking will be available at the park, but will be limited. All public parking is available on a first come, first served basis. Parking areas are closed to all vehicles whose passengers leave the grounds for more than one hour.
For the safety of visitors and park resources, the use of skateboards, inline skates, and roller skates is not permitted within the park. Additional information on permissible activities within the park can be found in the Superintendent’s Compendium. Food and DiningThe park does not offer full service or indoor dining facilities. Visitors are welcome to bring food into the park and enjoy the designated picnic areas in the Orpheus Grove near the main entrance gate. The use of fire, stoves, or grills is prohibited. RecreationVisitors are welcome to bring blankets and lawn chairs into the park. The use of hammocks is not permitted. Admission Fees and PassesThe entrance fee to the historic zone (Star Fort) is $15.00 for adults 16 years of age and older; children 15 and younger are free. This fee provides the visitor with a 7-day entrance permit to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. You must keep your entrance receipt to re-enter the park in the 7-day time period. America the Beautiful or Fort McHenry annual Passes are alternatives to the above fees. For more information on fees and passes, please click here. SafetyThe Visitor Center, Star Fort, and grounds may be closed to entry by the general public carrying backpacks, daypacks, large handbags, packages, coolers, or other large containers. These items are subject to search and inspection for weapons or items hazardous to visitors or staff. |
Last updated: August 24, 2022