by the dawn's early light, a large red, white and blue banner? Whose broad stripes and bright stars . . . were so gallantly streaming! over the star-shaped Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore, September 13-14, 1814. The valiant defense of the fort inspired Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner." Join a ranger for a Flag Change or Ranger Talk.

Outdoor activities include daily flag changes, weather permitting; interpretive programs; living history (seasonal); star fort and grounds, self-guided. Please inquire at the Visitor Center desk for current information.

RANGER PROGRAMS

Fall 2018 - Winter 2019

10:00 am - Morning Flag Change
11:15 am - Flag Talk
12:15 pm - Battle of Baltimore
1:15 pm - Flag Talk
2:15 pm - War on the Chesapeake
3:15 pm - Flag Talk
4:00 pm - Evening Flag Change

Flag Change: Help a ranger raise or lower the flag. This program provides information on the variety of flags used at Fort McHenry and their historic significance. This program is offered daily, weather permitting.

Flag Talk: Help unroll a full-sized replica of the Star-Spangled Banner and learn about the history of both the flag and the song it inspired. This talk is intended for groups no larger than 100.

Battle of Baltimore: The attack on Fort McHenry was but one aspect of the Battle of Baltimore. Learn about other phases of the battle and the War of 1812 that Francis Scott Key did not see. This program discusses the battle of North Point, the bombardment of Fort McHenry and places them in the context of the broader Chesapeake campaign.

War on the Chesapeake: The Battle of Baltimore was part of the larger campaign in the Chesapeake Bay that raged from February 1813 until February 1815. This interactive program discusses the role of militia, sailors, and citizens in defense of the Chesapeake region, while identifying the importance of the bay as it connects towns, cities - people. 

Flag Change Programs occur twice daily, year round. Weather permitting, help a ranger raise/lower a reproduction of the Star-Spangled Banner flag.

Programs are offered on a first come, first served basis according to the scheduled times listed below. Reservations are not required and will not be accepted. Programs are subject to change due to staff availability and weather conditions. Please check with the front desk upon arrival to confirm activities.

For further information, kindly visit this link: https://www.nps.gov/fomc/index.htm