Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

War in the Chesapeake

Join a ranger for 30-45 minutes for a free program that will explain the Chesapeake Campaign, a nearly two year campaign in the Chesapeake Bay region during the War of 1812. From 1813-1814, the Chesapeake Campaign brought terror and destruction to small towns such as Ha......More

Join a ranger for 30-45 minutes for a free program that will explain the Chesapeake Campaign, a nearly two year campaign in the Chesapeake Bay region during the War of 1812. From 1813-1814, the Chesapeake Campaign brought terror and destruction to small towns such as Havre de Grace and Fredericktown, and culminated in the burning of Washington D.C. and the bombardment of Fort McHenry that inspired the creation of the Star-Spangled Banner. 

Meet at Chesapeake Map behind Visitor Center.

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

War in the Chesapeake

Join a ranger for 30-45 minutes for a free program that will explain the Chesapeake Campaign, a nearly two year campaign in the Chesapeake Bay region during the War of 1812. From 1813-1814, the Chesapeake Campaign brought terror and destruction to small towns such as Ha......More

Join a ranger for 30-45 minutes for a free program that will explain the Chesapeake Campaign, a nearly two year campaign in the Chesapeake Bay region during the War of 1812. From 1813-1814, the Chesapeake Campaign brought terror and destruction to small towns such as Havre de Grace and Fredericktown, and culminated in the burning of Washington D.C. and the bombardment of Fort McHenry that inspired the creation of the Star-Spangled Banner. 

Meet at Chesapeake Map behind Visitor Center.

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

Morning Flag Change

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why ......More

Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night.Don’t just read about history—experience it!Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent.

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort

American Anthem

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stori......More

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to serve as topics for ranger's choice programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories!Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Flag Talk

The American flag is a major national symbol today, in part, because of the events that occured at Fort McHenry. Join rangers for this daily program as they talk about the design of the Star-Spangled Banner flag, its relationship to the park, and how we view it today.

Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.

Battle of Baltimore

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet fr......More

Join rangers for a 45-60 minute program and learn about one of the most pivotal battles of the War of 1812 while walking the historic grounds. Along the way, hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

Evening Flag Change

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why......More

 Fort McHenry holds a unique honor as the very first site to receive a presidential proclamation requiring the U.S. flag to fly 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Each day, you’re invited to join park staff for our morning and evening flag‑changing traditions. Discover why the flag became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore and how it became deeply tied to the nation’s story as the inspiration behind the Star-Spangled Banner. In the mornings, we raise a replica of a historic flag. In the evenings, we lift an all‑weather flag that proudly flies through the night. Don’t just read about history—experience it! Plan your visit, join a flag program, and be part of a tradition that connects us to the nation’s story.*Flag changes are weather dependent. 

Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort