The March to Valley Forge/William T. Trego, 1883, Courtesy of The American Revolution Center

Valley Forge National Historical Park in Pennsylvania will host the March In of the Continental Army annual event on Monday, December 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the visitor center complex area. This event commemorates the 239th anniversary of the December 19, 1777, “march in” of Gen. George Washington's Continental Army to Valley Forge and features the first opportunity to see the newly rehabilitated Fort John Moore/Redoubt. Candlelit ranger tours, fife and drum performances, and interpreters will share stories of the encampment.

“This signature Valley Forge event will put an exclamation point on what has been a highly successful and memorable centennial year for the National Park Service. The annual tradition of celebrating the ‘march in’ honors the most famous and influential winter encampment of the Revolution,” said acting Superintendent Steve Sims. “The rehabilitation of Fort John Moore/Redoubt #2 was a significant undertaking that we couldn’t have done without the help of the Valley Forge Park Alliance. The fortification is a critical component which will now enable the visitor to have a deeper and richer understanding of the encampment.”

When ready to take the quarter-mile, ranger-led lantern walks out to the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts, gather by the theater. Lantern walks depart every 20 minutes, with the first walk departing at 6 p.m. and the last walk departing at 7:40 p.m.

At the Muhlenberg huts:

• Fort John Moore/Redoubt #2 will be lit up so visitors can get a first-hand view of the fortifications.
• Learning stations at the huts include civilians and camp supplies, hut construction, camp medicine, camp followers, and children’s activities and games.
• Warm up around the campfire and hear stories from soldiers before heading back to the visitor center.

 In the visitor center:

• Dean Malissa, nationally renowned portrayer of George Washington, including at Mount Vernon, will bring the general to life with special talks.
• The Colonial Revelers will provide 18th century song and dance.
• The Encampment Store will have light refreshments along with a sampling of historic chocolate.  

At the Education Pavilion:

• The Freedom High School Fife and Drum Corps will play throughout the night.

This is a free event and does not require reservations. Parking will be available at the visitor center parking lot.