I met a friend for dinner last night in Old Town Manassas and when I got there I walked smack dab into the beginning of the Manassas 150th commemoration of the Civil War event. Granted, the 100+ degree temperatures probably made for some smaller crowds, it was still fun to see folks walking around in their civil war era clothing, listening to bands playing in the pavilion, and grabbing a few shots before dinner.
Musicians in the pavilion
Manassas is steeped in civil war history and this weekend there will be numerous events to commemorate the battle of First Manassas (Bull Run). Every day from now through July 24th, there will be living history events planned throughout the area. There will also be parades, re-enactments, and even a Blue-Gray Ball where you can interact with civil war personalities. You can find out more about the Old Town Manassas activities by following this link.
Old Town Manassas isn’t the only place to experience civil war era activities. There are numerous tours, exhibits, and Musket demonstrations, walking tours and more available through the National Park Service at the Manassas National Battlefield Park. Here’s a link to the NPS website with more info.
If you are into reenactments, you should check out all of the activities going on at Pageland Farm in Gainesville. hundreds of civil war reenactors will be descending on the battlefield to give you a taste of what it was all about. It’s living history at its best. You can find more info on events, tickets, and more at the Manassas/Bull Run Commemoration website.
Just remember to take your water and maybe an umbrella for some portable shade. It’s going to be pretty darned hot. Oh, and don’t forget your camera.
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Loving that shot of the cannons Jeff!