Special Events

Spring at Appomattox Court House

NPS Photo

The following are upcoming special events hosted by Appomattox Court House National Historical Park:

July 4, 2026 – Independence Day Programming

Celebrate Independence Day at your local National Park! Special programming includes:

9:50- Living History Program- John Dennett
A first-person living history presentation portraying newspaper reporter John Dennett, a reporter for the New York Newspaper, The Nation, who travelled throughout the South, including here in the summer of 1865.

10:50- Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Join living history interpreters for a public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

11:50- Civil War Era Music
Enjoy a selection of songs from the time period as you learn about popular music during the Civil War and how music connects to the community at Appomattox Court House.

12:50- Peter Francisco: An American Revolution War Hero
Historian Patrick Schroeder presents the story of Peter Francisco, the larger-than-life Southside Virginia-native whose exploits, accomplishments, victories, and adventures are the stories of legend and heroism during the American Revolution.

1:50- Ranger's Choice: Artifact Talk
Join a park ranger for a short indoor program showcasing select artifacts from the museum's collection.

2:50- Fourth of July 1861-1865
Ranger Bob Swift discusses significant events that occurred on or around July 4 during the years of the Civil War and explores what they meant then and what they continue to mean today.

August 1, 2026 – “Musical Histories of Appomattox”

Enjoy an afternoon of music on the porch of the Clover Hill Tavern on Saturday, August 1, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Rangers will share how music connects to Appomattox Court House, and the experience of those who lived here. There will be historic tunes, singing, and maybe even some dancing. Bring your own instrument if you would like to join in!

September 5, 2026 – Play a Game of Civil War Base Ball

Step up to the plate for a day of ‘base ball’ (spelled with two words in the 1860s) at your local National Park on Saturday, September 5, 2026. All visitors are welcome to physically join in playing a game of ‘base ball’ following Civil War era rules. Games will be held, weather permitting, at 10 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. There is no need to bring a mitt, as they were not used, but the Park will provide period correct bats and balls. Wear appropriate clothing and camp chairs are encouraged.