Victory Season at Saratoga 250: Children’s Surrender Day Ceremony

The annual children’s ceremony on October 15, 2027, at Fort Hardy Park in Schuylerville marks the 250th anniversary of the British surrender at Saratoga. Hosted by the Town of Saratoga, the Village of Schuylerville, the Saratoga County 250th American Revolution Commission, and the Campaign for Saratoga 250, the event invites students and families of young children to commemorate the American victory at the Battles of Saratoga.

The ceremony begins at 9:45 AM and takes place outdoors, weather permitting. Updates will be posted if it is canceled. Parking is available at the park by the youth center and the municipal ball fields.

Program highlights include:
- Students portraying British soldiers in the Grounding of the Arms, using wooden muskets
- Presentation of the National Colors, tentatively by the New York National Guard
- Lowering of the British flag and raising of the American flag
- Cannon firings
- Patriotic songs performed by students
- Sword surrender reenactment recalling Burgoyne’s capitulation
- Keynote address on General Henry Knox and leadership
- Presentation of the General John Patterson – Supervisor Thomas Wood IV Saratoga Teaching Excellence Award
- Laying of wreaths in honor of those who fought and sacrificed
- The traditional 13 Toasts to the American Victory, accompanied by cannon fire

The ceremony is coordinated by Sean Kelleher, Saratoga Town Historian and Saratoga 250 Vice Chair. Students’ involvement brings the events of 1777 to life and fosters a connection to local heritage.