Bennington Battle Day is observed in Vermont every August 16 to commemorate an American victory over the British during the American Revolutionary War, specifically the Battle of Bennington. This battle, part of the Saratoga campaign, took place in 1777 when British General John Burgoyne sent a detachment to capture a supply depot at Bennington, mistakenly believing it was lightly defended. However, they were met by over 2,000 American troops led by General John Stark, resulting in a decisive victory for the Americans. The battle, although fought in Walloomsac, New York, is named after Bennington due to its strategic significance. Celebrations include re-enactments of the battle organized by local history foundations. The Bennington Battle Monument, a 306-foot obelisk dedicated in 1891, serves as a prominent symbol of this historic event.