Parks

23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing after twelve hours of savage combat on September 17, 1862. The Battle of Antietam ended the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia's first invasion into the North and led Abraham Lincoln to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.

Map showing location of park.

Two Civil War-era cannons sit on a grassy field at Monocacy National Battlefield, with a white farmhouse in the background.

National Parks Across the National Capital Area Bring America’s Military History to Life

2026-09-04

As the nation continues to celebrate its 250th anniversary, the National Park Service sites across the National Capital Area are inviting visitors to explore the region’s rich military history and the people and events that shaped the country. Throughout September, living history programs, artillery demonstrations, ranger-guided hikes and other events will connect visitors with stories spanning from 1775 through World War II.

Children hold hands as they roller skate around the rink at Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion during the park’s Late Skate program in Washington, D.C., on June 28, 2025.

Celebrate America’s Story in the National Capital Area During National Park Week, August 22-30

2026-08-21

The National Park Service is excited to welcome visitors to celebrate National Park Week from Saturday, August 22 through Sunday, August 30, as dozens of sites across the region mark the 2026 theme, “Celebrate America’s Story,” highlighting the 250th anniversary of American independence and recognizing our shared American heritage of national parks.