Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park will mark the 167th anniversary of John Brown’s 1859 raid on the U.S. Armory with three public programs in October exploring the people, events and consequences of the raid.

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.

Step into the history as Harpers Ferry National Historical Park commemorates the 164th anniversary of the Battle of Harpers Ferry with four days of special programs from September 12–15, 2026. Programs explore the people and events surrounding the battle, which resulted in the largest surrender of U.S. troops until World War II, as well as the battle’s broader implications.

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.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and the Appalachian Chamber Music Festival invite the public to a dynamic, free outdoor concert on Friday, August 7, at 7:00 p.m., celebrating two iconic forces in American music. Blending the swing innovations of Don Redman with the timeless brilliance of George Gershwin, festival musicians and the Howard Burns Quartet will bring an energetic fusion of jazz and classical traditions to the historic Storer College lawn as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary festivities.