Annual Events

January - April

Children are invited to "Join the Continental Army" and experience a day in the life of the continental soldier. Training sessions are held on the first Saturday of every month from January through April. Come to one, two or all four of the sessions to learn basic drills and commands from the Army's officers.

February 19

Valley Forge was the site of the first public birthday celebration for George Washington. Each year, the park celebrate's Washington's birthday with a full day of activities that include games and crafts, a chance for kids to join the Continental Army, and the ceremonial cake cutting.

April

Runners, walkers and supporters from across the region come together for the annual Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run®. The namesake race takes runners across the challenging terrain of the park, testing their speed and endurance. A three-mile walk, the 1.776 kilometer (1 mile) Young Patriots Fun Run, and an outdoor expo are all part of the day's activities. 

May 29

As the home of the United States National Memorial Arch, it is only fitting that Valley Forge honors the fallen each year with a Memorial Day Observance. Past years' activities have included carillon concerts at the neighboring Washington Memorial Chapel and special guided tours of the park. Memorial Day is also the perfect time to tour the neighboring Medal of Honor Grove at the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge.  

June 2017

On June 18, 1778, the Continental Army marched out of Valley Forge ready to take the fight to the British Army once again. Each year, Valley Forge Park commemorates the occasion with its March Out of the Continental Army program. Follow in the footsteps of the soldiers as they march from Artillery Park to Varnum's Picnic Area.

July 4

Celebrate our nation's independence at Valley Forge National Historical Park. The annual community picnic includes games and crafts for the kids, a cook-out at the Visitor Center, artillery demonstrations, readings of the Declaration of Independence and guided park tours. 

September

National Public Lands Day is an opportunity to help make Valley Forge National Historical Park a better place for visitors. Valley Forge is one of more than 2,000 sites across the country that will be welcoming volunteers to lend a hand in environmental and maintenance projects.

November 11

Valley Forge National Historical Park honors our nation's military veterans during the annual Veterans Day Commemoration. The event includes a commemoration service at the United States National Memorial Arch as well as interpretive programs and special park tours.

December 19

On December 19, 1777, the Continental Army marched in to Valley Forge to begin its winter encampment. That first night is remembered each year with the March In program at the park. Events include a nighttime encampment at the Muhlenberg Brigrade Huts, an appearance by General Washington and extended hours in the Visitor Center and the Encampment Store.