National Parks Across the National Capital Area Bring America’s Military History to Life

News Release Date: September 4, 2026
Contact:NCR Communications

WASHINGTON - As the nation continues to celebrate its 250th anniversary, the National Park Service sites across the National Capital Area are inviting visitors to explore the region's rich military history and the people and events that shaped the country. Throughout September, living history programs, artillery demonstrations, ranger-guided hikes and other events will connect visitors with stories spanning from 1775 through World War II.

The month begins at Monocacy National Battlefield at 10 a.m. Saturday, September 5, with "Troops Through Time." Living History volunteers will demonstrate the experiences of soldiers in some of the nation's most notable military conflicts, from 1775 through World War II. The event will include education displays, military vehicles, artillery demonstration, and guest speakers presenting a variety of military history topics throughout the day.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park will commemorate the 1862 Battle of Harpers Ferry from Saturday, September 12 through Tuesday, September 15. The battle resulted in the largest surrender of U.S. troops until World War II. Confederate General Stonewall Jackson's forces captured roughly 12,500 Union soldiers, before rapidly moving to reinforce Confederate lines during the Battle of Antietam. Programs will explore the people and events surrounding the battle, including artillery demonstrations with a Civil War replica cannon and ranger-guided hikes and walks that follow the footsteps of soldiers. All programs are included with park admission. More information about each event can be found on the park's calendar.

Beginning Wednesday, September 16, Antietam National Battlefield will host five days of events commemorating the 1862 Battle of Antietam. Park staff and volunteers will offer tours, hikes, talks, living history demonstrations, and firing demonstrations exploring the events that unfolded during and after the Maryland Campaign of 1862. Visitors can walk the ground where the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia's invasion into the North ended 164 years earlier. The full schedule can be found on the park's website.

The Civil War Defenses of Washington, a network of 18 sites that once formed a complex system of Civil War fortifications, will also host events throughout the month. Programs include the Junior Ranger Discovery Club on September 10 and the 102nd Commemoration of Lincoln-Thomas Day on September 19, marking President Lincoln's visit to Fort Stevens. During Rock Creek Park Day on September 26, Buffalo Soldier reenactors at the Battleground National Cemetery will share how Buffalo Soldiers became some of the nation's earliest national park protectors and explore their local connection to Samuel Sewell, a veteran of the famed 10th U.S. Cavalry. More information can be found on the park's calendar.

Learn more and explore additional events at the NPS Regional Calendar.

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About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

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