NPS Photo / G. Purifoy Ranger programs, including fall campfire programs at Conway's Brigade, are offered on weekends in the fall, September through November (see details below). Ranger programs are typically scheduled between 10 AM and 12 PM, or between 1 PM and 3 PM. Locations vary according to season and staffing. Call the information desk at 610-783-1099 or ask a ranger inside the Visitor Center at Valley Forge for the most current information about daily times, topics, and locations of ranger programs. 
NPS Graphic / G. Purifoy Fall Campfire ProgramsSelected Saturdays in the fall at 7 PMHot fire, warm conversation. Join a park ranger for an interactive evening by the campfire as we discuss unique stories of Valley Forge and the American Revolution. The programs are located at Conway’s Brigade, and run for about an hour. Conway’s Brigade & Parking: Accessible from PA Route 23. Park at the Von Steuben Statue parking lot or the Varnum’s Picnic Area parking lot, then walk down the historic trace road to Conway’s Brigade. What to Bring: Flashlight, blanket, jacket. Weather: The program will be canceled for rain, call 610-783-1099 before 5 PM to check on the status of the program. October 5, 2024 - Communities at WarDecember 1777, the Continental Army arrived at Valley Forge to begin to set up their military encampment. The army fought around the Philadelphia area for months prior, relying on local communities big and small for supplies, shelter, and medical care. This program will look at a few of these communities, including Bethlehem, Lancaster, Lititz, and others that were involved in the cause of independence. October 12, 2024 – War In Winter: Military Operations During the Valley Forge EncampmentNo battle was fought when the Continental Army encamped at Valley Forge, unless you consider the battles against disease, weather, and supply shortages. That said, combat operations continued all around British-Occupied Philadelphia as the two armies vied for the resources of the Philadelphia countryside. Skirmishes were common, and some of them were large and quite vicious. October 19, 2024 - Ancient Bones of Valley Forge: Fossils of the Port Kennedy Bone CaveWhat was life like in this part of the world 750,000 years go? An incredible fossil discovery right here in Valley Forge can give us clues! Join us for a discussion about the history of this excavation and about the animals that made this place their home during the ice ages. October 26, 2024 - John Laurens: Forgotten PatriotJohn Laurens was dedicated to serving his country with virtue and loyalty, but just like anyone he had his flaws. What do we know about who John Laurens really was, and why is he considered one of the unsung heroes of the American Revolution? November 2, 2024 - The Conway CabalGeorge Washington is well-known as the man who led the Continental Army to victory in the American Revolutionary War and then became the first president of the United States, but during the Valley Forge encampment there were officers and Congressmen who were not at all confident in his ability to achieve victory against the British and unite a nation. Learn about how the Conway Cabal critiqued Washington’s leadership and attempted to remove him from his role as Commander-in-Chief. 
NPS Photo / G. Purifoy Washington's Headquarters and Valley Forge Station Open HousePark rangers and volunteers are on site during operating hours to interpret the house and answer visitor questions. Open daily March through October. Winter hours vary. See full seasonal operating hours here. Washington's HeadquartersRooms are furnished to represent how they may have looked during the Valley Forge encampment. Historic Valley Forge StationContains museum exhibits, located adjacent to Washington's Headquarters. 
NPS Photo / G. Purifoy Art in the Park OutingsJoin rangers each month at a different beautiful location in the park to practice your photography, sketching, drawing, or painting in a stress-free, judgment-free environment! Bring your own equipment and supplies. The program is free — advance registration is not required. Programs are scheduled in the morning usually from 8 AM to 11 AM on either Saturdays or Sundays. 2024 Art in the Park Meetup Dates
You can also check the event calendar and search using the keyword "Art in the Park" to find upcoming programs. Join the Art in the Park Facebook community here. 
NPS Photo / B. Dhunjisha Story Time at Valley ForgeJoin park rangers on four Saturday mornings in February and March as they read a short story about the history or natural resources found at the park. Who: Geared towards families with kids in preschool through 2nd grade (all children are required to have a parent or guardian present). Where: The Meeting Room at Valley Forge located on the 2nd floor of the visitor center building. (1000 North Outer Line Drive). When: 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM - 1 hour duration
Cost: Free! Seasonal Programming ChangesSummer(June through August). Ranger programs are offered most days during the summer months. Fall(September through November) Ranger programs are offered on weekends in the fall. WinterThere are no regularly scheduled ranger programs at Valley Forge from December through Februrary. Even though regular ranger programs don't start until March, there are special events and programming, including March-In (around Dec. 19), Washington's Birthday (Feb. 19), and Story Time at Valley Forge Spring(March through May) Ranger programs are offered on weekends in the spring. |
Last updated: October 4, 2024