Bunker Hill Day
The day the American spirit was forged in fire. On June 17, 1775, colonial militia stood against the world's most powerful army on a hill in Charlestown and proved that the fight for liberty would be costly — for both sides.
Explore the Battle History →Bunker Hill Day (June 17) is the annual observance of the Battle of Bunker Hill, the first major pitched battle of the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783). Fought primarily on Breed's Hill in Charlestown, Massachusetts, the battle saw approximately 2,300 British soldiers under General William Howe assault a fortified position held by about 1,200 colonial militia under Colonel William Prescott. The British technically won the field but at a staggering cost — 1,054 casualties (226 killed, 828 wounded) versus about 450 American casualties. This battle gave birth to the legendary command "Don't shoot until you see the whites of their eyes" and proved that the colonial militia could stand toe-to-toe with British regulars. Today, Bunker Hill Day is marked by parades, historical reenactments, monument visits, and flag ceremonies — especially in the Boston and Charlestown area.①②
16 Key Facts About Bunker Hill Day
Battle of Bunker Hill — At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Battle of Bunker Hill (fought on Breed's Hill) |
| Date | June 17, 1775 |
| Location | Charlestown Peninsula, Massachusetts (42°22′35″N 71°03′39″W) |
| Result | British tactical victory; American strategic moral victory |
| American Commander | Colonel William Prescott, General Israel Putnam |
| British Commander | General William Howe, General Henry Clinton |
| British Forces | ~2,300 regulars, 5 warships (HMS Lively, Somerset, Glasgow, etc.) |
| American Forces | ~1,200–1,500 militia from MA, CT, NH, RI |
| British Casualties | 226 killed, 828 wounded (including 89 officers) |
| American Casualties | ~140 killed, 271 wounded, 30 captured |
| Key American Loss | Dr. Joseph Warren — major general who fought as a private and was killed |
| Key British Loss | Major John Pitcairn — Marine officer who led at Lexington |
| Famous Quote | "Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes" — attributed to Prescott |
| Monument | Bunker Hill Monument, 221 ft granite obelisk, 294 steps |
Explore Bunker Hill Day
📜 History & Origins
The full story of the Battle of Bunker Hill — how it began, the three assaults, and why it became a turning point in the American Revolution.
Read the full history →🦅 Heroes & Stories
The men behind the legend — Joseph Warren, Peter Salem, William Prescott, and the untold stories of courage on both sides.
Meet the heroes →🎉 Traditions & Customs
From the Bunker Hill Day Parade to the Monument climb, discover how Americans have honored this day for nearly 250 years.
Explore traditions →🍔 Food & Fun
What Americans eat and do on Bunker Hill Day — from colonial-style meals to community picnics and family activities.
Food & fun ideas →🏛️ Modern Celebrations
How Bunker Hill Day is celebrated today — monument visits, reenactments, educational programs, and the 250th anniversary events.
See celebrations →🏴 Flags & Etiquette
The Bunker Hill Flag, the Pine Tree symbol, U.S. Flag Code, and proper display customs for this historic day.
Learn about flags →Frequently Asked Questions About Bunker Hill Day
Want to learn more about Bunker Hill Day?
Explore each section to get the complete picture — from the battle itself to modern celebrations and visitor information.
① National Park Service — Boston National Historical Park (nps.gov/bost)
② Encyclopædia Britannica — Battle of Bunker Hill
③ American History Central — Bunker Hill Battle Facts & Summary
④ Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism — Bunker Hill Monument
⑤ The Bunker Hill Monument Association (historical records)
⑥ Time and Date — Bunker Hill Day Observances