Special Events

Spring at Appomattox Court House

NPS Photo

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

December 15, 2024- Civil War Santa Event

Celebrate the holiday season with a historical twist! Hosted in partnership with the Appomattox 1865 Foundation, this free, family-friendly event will be held on Sunday, December 15, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Appomattox Court House National Historical Park.

The event offers visitors the chance to experience holiday traditions from the 1860s, including photos with a Civil War-era Santa Claus and fun holiday craft activities for all ages. The modern image of Santa Claus first appeared during the Civil War with Harper’s Weekly cartoonist Thomas Nast in 1863 depicting Santa dressed in an American flag-like outfit with stars on his coat and stripes on his pants distributing gifts to Federal soldiers.

February 1, 2025- 26th Annual Appomattox Court House NHP and Longwood University Free Civil War Seminar

Join the National Park Service and Longwood University at the annual free Civil War Seminar on Saturday, February 1, 2025, located in the Jarman Auditorium at Longwood University, Farmville, VA. Noted scholars will present a series of thematically related programs upon "Act 5: The Final Curtain." Learn More.

April 8-13, 2025- 160th Commemoration of Surrender and Freedom Day

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park will commemorate the 160th anniversary of General Robert E. Lee’s surrender to Lt. General Ulysses S. Grant and Freedom Day (April 9) with special anniversary programs and activities from April 8-13, 2025. Learn More.

Partner Events

For more information on partner-sponsored events, check the Appomattox 1865 Foundation's site.