Fort Ticonderoga is set to host “Defiance & Independence,” a two-day battle re-enactment on Saturday July 21 and Sunday July 22.

Featuring nearly 500 historical re-enactors, this is the largest battle re-enactment of the year at Fort Ticonderoga. The battle will highlight the events of the summer of 1777, when Fort Ticonderoga’s American garrison was defeated by a British invasion force from Canada.

Visitors can watch, learn, and experience first-hand as the armies battle across the historic landscape at 1 pm both Saturday and Sunday, during two unique battle scenarios. This two-day battle re-enactment will portray General Arthur St. Clair’s decision to evacuate Ticonderoga and how it constructed British General John Burgoyne’s advance towards Albany.

On Saturday at 6:30 pm a gun crew from the Royal Artillery will haul their cannon to the summit of Mount Defiance, aiming at the Ticonderoga Peninsula located below. Guests can learn about the details of this feat and witness a cannon demonstration in the evening light of the summit. An additional ticket for this program is required and must be purchased at the base of Mount Defiance.

During a special Saturday evening tour on the Carillon a glass of Colonial-inspired punch will set the mood for stories of armed schooners and prohibition-era rum-runners during a trip on Lake Champlain, and an opportunity to see the cannon firing demonstration on Mount Defiance from below.  This event requires pre-registration and an additional ticket, which can be purchased at Fort Ticonderoga or in advance by calling (518) 585-2821.

Admission to see this re-enactment is included with the purchase of a general admission ticket. New this year – second day admission is free – witness the entire two-day battle with a single ticket. For more information on this event and to view the entire event schedule, click here or call (518) 585-2821.

Photo of Mt Defiance cannon demonstration provided.