Valley Forge National Historical Park Celebrates 50th Anniversary and America’s 250th With Three-Day “Retreat to Valley Forge” Commemoration July 3–5

Contact: Gregory Purifoy

VALLEY FORGE, Pa. - Valley Forge National Historical Park, the only national park established on July 4, celebrates its 50th anniversary this summer with a three-day commemorative event. "Retreat to Valley Forge" will take place July 3-5, 2026. The celebration honors both the 50th anniversary of the park's addition to the National Park System and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Over the holiday weekend, visitors will experience living history demonstrations, musical performances, historical readings, interactive family programs, black powder demonstrations and two new temporary exhibits: "Valley Forge Then and Now" and "My Valley Forge Story."

The celebration begins July 3 with the dedication of a newly installed storytelling fire pit, a focal point for the weekend's interpretive programs. Events on July 4 center around the National Memorial Arch, commemorating the park's founding and the 248th anniversary of the Continental Army encampment. A closing ceremony at Muhlenberg's Brigade on July 5 concludes the event.

"As we mark both the park's 50th birthday and America's 250th," said Superintendent Rose Fennell, "Valley Forge continues to stand as a place of resilience, reflection and renewal. We welcome visitors from around the world to explore the stories, landscapes and legacies preserved here."

Visitor Planning, Transportation, and Safety

The park expects high visitation throughout the weekend, due to regional Independence Day events as well as international tourism associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup. To support visitor access:

• A special event shuttle service will operate July 3-5, with expanded service on July 4.
• Ride-hailing pickup and drop-off zones will be available throughout the park.
• Access to the Washington's Headquarters area is limited, due to the closure of the Isaac Potts House for restoration.
• Visitors should check the park website, NPS App, and onsite wayfinding signage for real-time updates, accessibility information, and safety messaging.

Background

Before its transfer to the nation on the day of the Bicentennial, Valley Forge operated for 83 years as Pennsylvania's first state park, established in 1893. The 50/250 Celebration reflects decades of stewardship, community partnership and public engagement.

"Valley Forge's history is layered-geological, cultural, military, industrial, and commemorative," said the park's Director of Visitor and Community Engagement Adam Gresek. "The 50/250 program celebration highlights these stories while inviting all visitors to connect with their national park."

Event Information

The full event schedule, shuttle routes, maps, and accessibility details are available at www.nps.gov/vafo and through the NPS App.

nps.gov

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.