Fog in one of the many grassy meadow in Valley Forge National Historical park
Valley Forge is the place where George Washington and the Continental Army took refuge during the winter of 1777-1778. Today the park protects 3,500 acres of meadows, woodlands, historic landscapes, and monuments commemorating the resolve of the Revolutionary War generation and honoring the power of people to pull together, overcome adversity, and find renewal through transformation.
Valley Forge National Historical Park, the only national park established on July 4, celebrates its 50th anniversary this summer with a three-day commemorative event. “Retreat to Valley Forge” will take place July 3–5, 2026. The celebration honors both the 50th anniversary of the park’s addition to the National Park System and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Beginning May 4, 2026, the Isaac Potts House in Valley Forge National Historical Park will temporarily close for a restoration project. Through Sunday, May 3, visitors can tour the historic structure used by General George Washington as his headquarters during the legendary 1777-1778 winter encampment. The house and its surrounding area will close to visitors until restoration is complete in 2027, in time to mark the 250th anniversary of Washington’s 1777 arrival at Valley Forge.