Victory Season at Saratoga: Surrender Day Ceremony
When and Where
Date and Time
Address
Cost
About this event
249th Anniversary of the Turning Point of the American Revolution
- Date: Friday, October 16, 2026
- Time: TBA (To Be Announced)
- Location: Fort Hardy Park, Schuylerville, NY
- Hosts: Town of Saratoga, Village of Schuylerville, Saratoga County 250th American Revolution Commission, and the Campaign for Saratoga 250
- Coordinator: Sean Kelleher, Saratoga Town Historian & Saratoga 250 Vice Chair
Relive the History: The Field of Grounded Arms
This annual commemoration recalls October 17, 1777, when British General John Burgoyne surrendered to American General Horatio Gates. The ceremony is held on the very ground where British regulars laid down their weapons, famously making it “the Field of Grounded Arms.”
On behalf of the local towns and historic commissions, we are honored to host students, families, and history enthusiasts for this immersive experience. This program highlights the lasting national and international significance of the Victory at Saratoga.
Event Program Highlights
Join us to witness the story of 1777 brought to life through dramatic reenactments, live music, and military pageantry. Key features of the ceremony include:
- Living History Reenactments: Local students portraying British soldiers in the symbolic "Grounding of the Arms" using wooden muskets, followed by the official sword surrender recalling Burgoyne’s capitulation.
- Military & Ceremonial Honors: The presentation of the National Colors (tentatively by the New York National Guard), alongside the symbolic lowering of the British flag and raising of the American flag.
- Keynote Address & Awards: A special address focusing on General Henry Knox and leadership in crisis, as well as the presentation of the General John Patterson – Supervisor Thomas Wood IV Saratoga Teaching Excellence Award.
- Patriotic Pageantry: Student-led musical performances, wreath-laying ceremonies honoring past sacrifices, and the traditional 13 Toasts to the American Victory accompanied by live cannon fire.
Visitor Logistics & Weather Updates
Parking is fully accessible directly at Fort Hardy Park, located near the local youth center and municipal ball fields.
Important Safety & Weather Notice: This outdoor event is weather permitting. In the event of inclement weather or cancellation, updates will be posted immediately on our official channels. Please follow @Saratoga250 on major social media platforms for real-time announcements.
https://saratoga250.com/news-events/events/upcoming/victory-season-at-saratoga-surrender-day-ceremony/
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Event times and information subject to change and not guaranteed.