Top 35 historic battle reenactments this year
Are you looking to attend a battle reenactment this year?
We've listed here the top battle reenactments happening this year, including the Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWI, and WWII reenactments and more.
If you have attended a reenactment that belongs on this list, please let us know.
2020 Brooksville Raid Reenactment
January 18 - 19, 2020
Brooksville, Florida
The largest Civil War reenactment in Florida with over 1500 reenactors and their families, 28 cannons, 60 horses, and over 50 sutlers. The annual Brooksville Raid reenactment is a re-creation of a Civil War battle that happened in Hernando County in July of 1864. The event features authentic confederate and union camps - step back in time and see for yourself how the war was fought and the many support personnel who worked to supply the soldiers, and their war efforts.
You'll find more details here.
The Battle at Mill Creek
January 31 - February 2, 2020
Canton, Texas
The Mill Creek Ranch Resort, The Mountain & Old Mill Marketplace, and the 9th Texas Infantry present a weekend of Civil War Reenactments.Step back in time to 1864 and come experience living history which will include a civilian camp, artisans, period sutlers, and several historical displays and demonstrations.
You'll find more details here.
2020 Battle of Round Mountain Reenactment
February 14 - 16, 2020
Yale, Oklahoma
Each February, the town of Yale comes alive with this annual reenactment. This event recreates a winter encampment of the Civil War era and takes place over three days, with living history Union and Confederate soldiers setting up opposing camps. Activities include time period weaponry displays, cooking demonstrations, lectures, sutlers and many more.
You'll find more details here.
Annual Reenactment of the Battle of Olustee or Ocean Pond
February 14 -16, 2020
Sanderson, Florida
Florida’s annual reenactment of the Battle of Olustee draws over 30,000 crowds each year. Be sure to attend on a Saturday to witness the climax of the weekend when 2,500 reenactors of Confederate and Union troops advance on the battlegrounds and engage in combat at the same place where the actual Battle of Olustee took place on February 20, 1864.
You'll find more details here.
Recommended by Robert Burke
2020 Revolution in Huntington Beach
February 15 - 16, 2020
Huntington Beach, California
A free event that is open to the public. Activities during this weekend include different battle reenactments that can be witnessed throughout the day, as well as, artillery and sword demonstrations, live music, 18th-century dancing and plenty of food options.
You'll find more details here.
Recommended by IL Martin
Our signature Civil War "History Nerd" T-Shirt in dark blue and charcoal grey
Also available in a sticker.
Battle of Aiken
February 22 - 23, 2020
Aiken, South Carolina
For two days, reenactors eat, sleep, live and fight in a painfully recreated version of the world in 1865. This War Between the States features authentic 19th-century military encampments, cannons, cavalry horses, living history presentations, reproductions of medical facilities, an engineer and signal service, and civilian portrayals.
You'll find more details here.
19th Annual Reenactment and 154th Anniversary of the Battle for Broxton Bridge
February 28 - March 1, 2020
Ehrhardt, South Carolina
On the southern end of Broxton Bridge Plantation, there is an old battleground, complete with all the breastworks, left over from the South's defenses on February 1, 1865, which happened 153 years ago. Relive the last big defensive effort for the Confederates before the battle of Columbia. The special attraction includes the H. L. Hunley submarine traveling exhibit.
You'll find more details here.
155th Bentonville Reenactment
March 21 - 22, 2020
Bentonville Battlefield, North Carolina
Visitors will learn that the Battle of Bentonville of March 19-21,1865 was the last major Confederate offensive of the war as General Joseph Johnston fought the advancing troops of General Sherman's march across the south. This living history event only happens every five years, with many free programs and two battle reenactments.
You'll find more details here.
The Port Hudson Siege Annual Re-enactment
March 28 - 29, 2020
Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson
The annual reenactment will mark the 157th anniversary of "The Siege of Port Hudson." Visitors will have access to reenactors from both the Union and Confederate armies. Campsites will be open to the public. The battle reenactments are scheduled for 2:00 PM on Saturday, and 1:30 PM on Sunday.
You'll find more details here.
Recommended by John Potts.
The Great War: World War I
April 4 - 5, 2020
Rockford, Illinois
A World War I military re-enactment and one of the largest in the United States, that features over 225 reenactors portraying soldiers and civilians from the United States and Europe in the museum’s historic village. Visitors engage in this unique historic, immersive experience with the opportunity to enter encampments, tour a reproduction 150-yard trench system, and watch large-scale narrated battle reenactments.
You'll find more details here.
Patriots' Day 2020. The 245th Anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord
April 11 - 25, 2019
Lexington, Massachusetts
Thousands of people flock to historic Lexington and Concord and Minute Man National Historical Park every year to celebrate Patriots' Day, a special Massachusetts State holiday commemorating the opening battle of the American Revolutionary War on April 19, 1775. One highlight of the event is the "Parker's Revenge" Battle Demonstration on April 18 which will begin at 1:00 in the afternoon. Hundreds of British and Colonial re-enactors will engage in a tactical weapons demonstration showing the running battle that took place on the border of Lincoln and Lexington.
You'll find more details here.
San Jacinto Day Festival 2020
April 18, 2019
La Porte, Texas
Booming cannons, cracking musket fire, thundering hooves and desperate battle cries resound across the San Jacinto Battleground as hundreds of history reenactors recreate the events leading up to Texas winning its independence from Mexico 181 years ago at the decisive Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836.
You'll find more details here.
Barboursville Civil War Days - 2020
May 1 - 3, 2020
Barboursville, West Virginia
Experience the sounds of battle at the annual Barboursville Civil War Days Weekend. This event commemorates two small battles that occurred in the Village of Barboursville, West Virginia. The original battles took place on July 13, 1861 and Sep. 8, 1862, when this was still Virginia.
You'll find more details here.
"Declaration of Independence"
Own a piece of history. Each version is printed by hand on a historic press just as it was done in 1776. The three versions pictured below from left to right are: "Declaration of Independence" from the Printing Office of Edes & Gill in Boston, "Declaration of Independence" printed by John Dunlap (Philadelphia), and "Declaration of Independence" printed by Mary Katherine Goddard (Baltimore).
Revolutionary War Weekend
May 2 - 3, 2020
Mount Vernon, Virginia
Learn about life in the 18th century and witness one of the largest Revolutionary War reenactments take place in Mount Vernon. Watch hundreds of Continentals, Redcoats, Hessians, cannon, and cavalry in action and meet General Washington. Wander through the encampment and discover how Washington used to work, sleep and dine during the Revolutionary War. Learn more about military techniques, mapmaking and surveying and even a camp laundry demonstration.
You'll find more details here.
The 156th Anniversary of Battle of Resaca Civil War Reenactment
May 15 - 17, 2020
Resaca, Georgia
Relive the largest battle of the Atlanta Campaign held on the historic Chitwood Farm, a 650 acre section of the original battlefield. Activities include exciting battles, memorial service at the C.S.A. cemetery, camp tours and talks with the soldiers, living history activities, cavalry competition, period medical demonstrations, Ladies Tea, period church service, period dance on Saturday night, "yard sale" of used reenactor clothing, and many more.
You'll find more details here.
156th Anniversary Battle of New Market Reenactment
May 16 - 17, 2020
New Market, Virginia
One of the oldest continual reenactments in the nation held on our original battlefield property. Experience Civil War soldier life as you visit on-going demonstrations and living history presentations prior to and after the battle each day. Walk in history's footsteps as you explore the sights and sounds of the Civil War with Artillery, Cavalry, Musket firing, Camp life, Medical Corps, and much more. Enjoy tasty treats from a variety of food vendors and shop for souvenirs on Sutler Row.
You'll find more details here.
Fight for the Backcountry: Battle of Alamance Reenactment
May 16, 2020
Burlington, North Carolina
Experience North Carolina’s internal power struggle on the eve of revolution! “Fight for the Backcountry” will feature a recreation of the Battle of Alamance, and will explore life in the backcountry in the early 1770s, as the American colonies stood on the brink of revolution.
You'll find more details here.
Recommended by Janine Harrison
44th Annual Spirit of Vincennes Rendezvous & Encampment
May 23 - 24, 2020
Vincennes, Indiana
One of the premier Revolutionary War reenactments in the Midwest, authentic battle reenactments are held four times during the event. Experience the American Revolution at a Living History Event, along with Revolutionary Era food, merchants, battle enactments and encampments with more than 100 booths with re-enactors demonstrating early frontier skills and merchants selling period wares. Entertainment includes strolling musicians, puppet shows, jugglers, oxen demonstration and more.
You'll find more details here.
Our original design "Revolutionary Superheroes"
Available as a t-shirt in black and light blue, v-neck shirt in black, large poster, 5" x 7" print,
sticker, magnet, and bookmark.
23rd Annual Reenactment at Fort Pocahontas
June 6 - 7, 2020
Fort Pocahontas, Charles City, Virginia
The historic events which took place on May 24, 1864 are remembered each year with a reenactment of the Action at Wilson’s Wharf. Military and civilian reenactors portray the lives of soldier and citizen inhabitants of the fort. There are family-friendly living history activities throughout the day including learning the art of field fortification.
You'll find more details here.
Annual Reenactment of the Battle of Monmouth
June 20 - 21, 2020
Manalapan, New Jersey
Come and experience what life was like during the Revolutionary War in this annual reenactment. See the Continental and British armies battle, just as they did in 1778. Hear the roar of Cannon and the crack of muskets! Activities will be held throughout the day.
You'll find more details here.
Recommended by Beth Thomson Bernardo and Glenn Kleiber
French and Indian War Encampment
July 3 - 5, 2020
Old Fort Niagara, Youngstown, New York
On its 41st year, this annual reenactment features hundreds of reenactors recreating the historic siege of 1759 during the French and Indian War with battle reenactments, siege demonstrations, a large camp of period artisans and merchants, cooking demonstrations, an exhibition of 18th century medicine, living history camps, artillery and musket firings, Native American councils and much more! It is one of the largest French and Indian War events in the world.
You'll find more details here.
Defiance & Independence
July 18 - 19, 2020
Fort Ticonderoga, New York
Witness the epic 1777 siege of American held Ticonderoga. As General Burgoyne tightened the hold on Ticonderoga, see how American soldiers and artillerymen held the line in the name of Liberty. Watch the story unravel around you as the roar of muskets and cannons erupt followed by a silent retreat that salvaged the remains of the American Army.
You'll find more details here.
Redcoats and Rebels
August 1 - 2, 2020
Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge, Massachusetts
This annual history event is the largest military re-enactment in New England. It has nearly 1,000 soldiers portraying British, Irish, Spanish, Scottish, French and Colonial troops. Witness the daily life of those who fought to win America’s freedoms. Activities include mock battles and skirmishes, tours of the British and American camps, training and cannon demonstrations, musket drilling with kids, help with camp laundry, 18th-century baseball and many more.
You'll find more details here.
257th Anniversary of the Battle of Bushy Run
August 1 - 2, 2020
Jeannette, Pennsylvania
Watch as the forces of his Royal Highness King George III pit against a confederation of Native Americans. See all the colors of war in the vibrant recreations of the two-day battle of Bushy Run that the various reenactors bring to life. Learn about how the battle progressed as well as how people lived in the mid-eighteenth century. Also featured are 18th century military camps, a sutler trade area, period craftspeople, and a children’s area.
You'll find more details here.
Recommended by Glenn Kleiber
Our exclusive "History Nerd" design with Ben Franklin Pullover Sweatshirt
Also in charcoal grey
Pipestone Civil War Days
August 15 and 16, 2020
Pipestone, Minnesota
Held in August every even-numbered year, this event is one of the most enduring and respected events of its type in the upper Midwest. Set in a beautiful historic setting visitors are invited to interact with civilian and military reenactors to share some of the flavor of the 1860's with them. Reenactors, or living historians, from around our nation, recreate scenes of daily life from the home to religion to education to military camps. Events throughout the weekend include educational programs, etiquette and ballroom dance lessons, camp tours, children's games, a Grand Ball and much more! The roar of the cannon, the smell of gun powder, and the work of our reenactors, performers, and other participants make a full immersion in the 1860s possible.
You'll find more details here.
D-Day Conneaut
August 20 - 22, 2020
Conneaut, Ohio
One of the most realistic and educational annual reenactment of D-Day which happened on June 6th, 1944 and the largest WWII reenactment in the US. Featuring over 1,200 re-enactors from across the United States and Canada happening on a 2250-yardlong beach and sloping adjacent terrain which closely resembles Omaha Beach in Normandy, France.
You'll find more details here.
Recommended by Glenn Kleiber
27th Battle of Tunnel Hill Reenactment
September 12 - 13, 2020
Tunnel Hill, Georgia
Visitors will enjoy a weekend of civil war reenactments, tours of the Historic Western & Atlantic Railroad Tunnel, Tunnel Museum, "Meadowlawn," the 1850 Clisby Austin House - headquarters of General William T. Sherman, as well as various food vendors and period sutler tents. Interact with the reactors, visit their camps, then find your spot to watch the battle unfold.
You'll find more details here.
Rockford World War II Days
September 19 - 20, 2019
Rockford, Illinois
One of the largest WWII re-enactment events in the United States. Each year, witness elaborate and realistic battles complete with tanks, artillery, armored vehicles, and exciting pyrotechnic displays. With more than 1,000 re-enactors representing soldiers from the United States, Great Britain, France, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Japan, Italy, and Germany, about 70 - 80 WWII vehicles, half-tracks, and other 1940s military vehicles make this a not-to-miss special event.
You'll find more details here.
Recommended by Dan Bauer
157th Anniversary of The Battle Of Blountville
September 25 - 27, 2020
Blountville, Tennessee
Preserve the legacy of the Battle of Blountville which occurred on 22 September 1863 in historic Blountville, Tennessee. This weekend-long history event will include authentic civil war camps, Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery, period displays, and exciting battles on both Saturday and Sunday.
You'll find more details here.
Shenandoah, 1864 - 156th Anniversary Reenactment
October 2 - 5, 2020
Lovettsville, Virginia
This event will feature unit specific detailed battle scenarios, even handed rule enforcement, correct force ratios, including artillery and mounted forces by invitation only, both campaign and garrison camping and unit specific impressions.
You'll find more details here.
Revolutionary Germantown Festival
October 3, 2020
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Come and join Philadelphia’s largest one-day history festival. Witness how the Revolutionary War turned Cliveden into a bloody battleground for General George Washington’s colonial soldiers as they battled the British in the fight to liberate occupied Philadelphia. Today, the Revolutionary Germantown Festival is a unique celebration attracting over 5,000 visitors each year with a day of family entertainment and reenactments of the Battle of Germantown.
You'll find more details here.
The 158th Anniversary of the Battle of Perryville
October 3 - 4, 2020
Perryville, KY
Happening on the actual ground that the armies of North and South engaged to determine the destiny of Kentucky, this event features Civil War battles, historical tours, living history encampments, ghost walks, a parade, street dancing, open fire cooking, picnics, a craft fair and flea market.
Recommended by Warner Todd Huston
You'll find more details here.
Our "Victory" shirts
Available in both short sleeves and long sleeves
2020 Battle of Cedar Creek Reenactment
October 17 - 18, 2020
Middletown, VA
Experience military life at the annual reenactment of the Battle of Cedar Creek. Featuring living history camps, live period music, and educational demonstrations on the original fields in Middletown, Virginia where the original battle was fought on October 19, 1864. Included in the ticket are living history activities at Belle Grove Plantation and tours of the Manor House.
You'll find more details here.
2020 Assault on Fort Mercer Reenactment (aka Battle of Red Bank Battlefield Reenactment)
October 25, 2020
National Park, New Jersey
Celebrate America’s heroes at the Assault on Fort Mercer Reenactment, part of the 18th Century Field Day at Red Bank Battle Field Park. Enjoy battle reenactments, colonial demonstrators, vendors, food, and fun! Learn about the Battle of Red Bank and why New Jersey is called “The Crossroads of the American Revolution.” Tour the Whitall House and visit with our hearth cookers preparing delicious fall-inspired food. Kids will be delighted with the spectacular sword fight and enjoy a colonial magic show.
You'll find more details here.
Revolutionary War Field Days
November 7 - 8, 2020
Camden, South Carolina
Hundreds of reenactors from across the country converge on the grounds of Historic Camden to camp, battle, and celebrate over the weekend. With more than 3,400 visitors who will get a chance to be a spectator for a battle each day, and they will be able to walk through the camps of the combatants while seeing demonstrations of Colonial crafts and skills. Colonial sutlers (merchants) and scholars giving talks about the war are on site as well.
You'll find more details here.
If you have a favorite that belongs on this list, please let us know. And if you're looking for a special gift for a history lover, check out our store, which is what funds the operation and expansion of The History List. You'll find shirts and stickers with our original design, special commemorative shirts, and signed books by noted historians.