Family Fun With a Patriotic Twist (NAPSA)—American families in search of vacation fun may enjoy a patriotic visit to the past. In 2002, Valley Forge National Historical Park (located just out- side Philadelphia) celebrates the 225th anniversary of the Conti- nental Army’s encampment there with special events and reenactments throughout the year. Some 20 historic sites in the surrounding countryside have joined with the park under the banner “Patriots or Traitors? The Struggle for Philadelphia, 1777- 1778.” Hundreds of reenactors and colonial craftspeople will converge on the region to recreate the sights and sounds of 18th century Amer- 2002 marks the 225th anniver- sary of the Continental Army’s encampmentatValley Forge. Craft fairs and living history demonstrations offer a glimpse of ica over 30 festive weekends. Today, Valley Forge is a peaceful, 3,600-acre expanse of rolling hillsides dotted with log huts, rows of cannon, Washington’s to purchase a souvenirof the past. Many Valley Forge countryside memorials to the soldiers who won our nation’s freedom. Visitors can his opponent, British General Headquarters, monuments and pick up a free map, watch a film, see museum displays and catch a tour bus in-season at the Visitors Center. domestic life—and opportunities inns and taverns frequented by General George Washington and Howe, are still welcoming travelers to enjoy a good meal or a bev- erage, along with a slice of history. Hotels and inns throughout the The park is open year-round, Valley Forge countryside are join- Washington’s Headquarters from April through November. Picnic ing and no charge for children and charges $2 admission to areas, a six-mile bike and foot trail and ten miles of horse trails offer recreational options, and can make it easy to spend a day at the park. Colonial taverns, farmhouses and mansions in the surrounding countryside tell other chapters in the story that led Washington’s men to Valley Forge. Cannon fire and musket powderfill the air in battle reenactments at Brandywine, Fort Mifflin and Cliveden. ing in the celebration by offering affordable lodging, with free park- under 16 staying in their parents’ room. Area attractions, museums, gardens and shopping venues are also offering special discounts. A free Visitors Guide, map and area driving tour booklet are available from the Valley Forge Convention & Visitors Bureau. For information, log on to www.valleyforge.org/np or call 800-441-3549, ext. 7969 and ask for the free “Patriots or Traitors?” packet.
