Guide to Defenders Day 2014 in Baltimore County

Reenactors, musicians, artisans, elected officials and visitors will converge at Fort Howard Park in Edgemere this weekend for the 2014 Defenders Day event.

Defenders Day was when British soldiers attempted to overtake Fort McHenry on Sept. 12, 1814, during the War of 1812, and were staved off by the local Baltimore militia in the Battle at North Point.

This year’s bicentennial recognition of the affair consists of a two-day, family friendly event including musical performances, activities, crafts and a series of reenactments, plus fireworks on Monday; see the full schedule of activities here. An abbreviated list is below.

The Patapsco-Neck Historical Society, Star-Spangled Banner 200 Partnership and Baltimore County Office of Tourism are cosponsoring the event. Defenders Day kicks off the Star-Spangled Spectacular, a series of events throughout September celebrating the 200th anniversary of the National Anthem in Maryland.

Activities on Saturday and Sunday will be at Fort Howard Park, 9500 North Point Road, in Edgemere. Pets are not permitted. Admission and parking are free.

Schedule:

10 a.m.–5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6

• Troop assemblies and flag raising at 10 a.m.
• Opening ceremonies at 12:30 p.m.
• Reenactments at 1:15 and 4:15 p.m.

10 a.m.–5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 7

• Reenactments at 1:15 and 4:15 p.m.

Dusk on Monday, Sept. 8

• Fireworks at Sparrows Point High School, 7400 North Point Road.