Living history volunteers in War of 1812 uniforms and clothing at Federal Hill

Celebrate the Glorious Fourth!

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Special Event
  • Jul 4, 2026 at 10:00 AM
  • Free

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. "American Anthem: 250 Years at the Home of the Brave" Join a ranger for a 45-minute walking program exploring Fort McHenry’s history of service, community, and defense, from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Explore the site and stories that inspired “The Star-Spangled Banner” as you reflect on how past generations shaped the nation and how each of us shapes its future.

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

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Schedule

Date:

Jul 4, 2026

Time:

10:00 AM

Duration:

7 hours

Contact Information

Shannon McLucas

Contact Us

Event Type

  • Living History
  • Performance
  • Talk
Tags: independence day, fourth of july, declaration of independence, fife and drum, ranger program, living history, freedom 250