Defenders' Day

Fireworks illuminate the Star-Spangled Banner during the evening program.

NPS / Tim Ervin

September 13 - 15, 2019

Join us in celebrating Baltimore's oldest holiday as we commemorate Defenders' Day 2018 at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine! All weekend long park staff and partners will offer programs and demonstrations to honor the successful defense of the city from British attack and the writing of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' in 1814. This year visitors will experience three major eras of the fort’s history – the War of 1812, Civil War, and World War I. The weekend will also include flag raisings, fireworks, period music performances, and artillery firing.

We'll be kicking off the weekend-long celebration on Friday, September 13th at 7:00 pm with a parade through Locust Point. Saturday and Sunday will be packed with special ranger talks that highlight the fort’s history from 1812 to World War I, flag change programs, living history demonstrations, and a special fireworks display on Saturday evening. The United States Army Band "Pershing's Own," U.S. Army Drill Team, and the Fort McHenry Guard will perform on Saturday before a spectacular fireworks display in the evening