Special Events

 

About Special Events

Outside of our regularly scheduled programs, we host programming and special events that range from seasonal programs like our History at Sunset talks, annual events like the Fredericksburg National Cemetery Illumination, commemorations of battle anniversaries, and special living history programming. Visit the programs page to learn about regularly scheduled programs.

 

Upcoming Special Events

While we occasionally host events in the winter, most park events are planned for the spring, summer, and fall.

Park Day - Volunteer Event

April 25, 2026
9 am - 12 noon
Meet at Ellwood (36380 Constitution Highway, Orange, VA 22960)

Join us for Park Day! This year's volunteer projects include painting the Brooder Barn at Ellwood and cleaning the perimeter wall and gravestones at the Fairview Cemetery on the Chancellorsville Battlefield. Participants should report to Ellwood at 9 am to register for the event. Make sure to dress appropriatly for working outside and be prepared with water, bug spray, and sun protection.

Civil War Book Group

First Wednesdays of the month
6 pm - 7 pm
Fredericksburg Library Branch (1201 Caroline St., Fredericksburg, VA 22401)

Visit the Civil War Book Group page for this month's title!

Chancellorsville Anniversary Programs

May 2, 2026

Meet at battle painting outside Chancellorsville Battlefield Visitor Center (9001 Plank Road, Spotsylvania, VA 22553)
Join a ranger for two special extended, 90 minute versions on our daily Chancellorsville tour.

10:30 am - Jackson Wounding Walking Tour

Examine the varying accounts and meanings behind the historical hyper-focus of the wounding of Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson by his own men on May 2, 1863. Consider how we analyze these different narratives, work through mysteries and evidence, and better understand the role of memory and the Lost Cause in our collective memory of this fatal night reconnaissance.

2 pm - May 3

This 2-mile, 90 minute hike will focus on the events that took place in the woods surrounding the visitor center on May 3, 1863. This walk will cover some uneven ground with roots and branches. Good shoes, sun protection, and bug spray are encouraged. The tour will walk down to the Chancellor house site, approximately one mile from the visitor center. Attendees should plan on a 2-mile round trip.

Open House at the "Stonewall" Jackson Death Site

May 10, 2026
9 am-5 pm
Drop-in
12019 Stonewall Jackson Road, Woodford, VA 22580

Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson died on May 10, 1863. Visit the farm office of the Fairfield Plantation, the building that Jackson died in, and reflect on the life and legacy of this historical figure.

Fredericksburg National Cemetery Luminaria

May 23, 2026
8 pm - 11pm
Fredericksburg National Cemetery

Join us for the 31st annual luminaria at the Fredericksburg National Cemetery on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Visit the cemetery between 8 pm and 11 pm to experience the luminaria. Visit the Luminaria page to learn more.

 

Annual and Recurring Special Events

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  National Cemetery Luminaria

  The National Cemetery Illumination takes place every year during Memorial Day Weekend.

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  Civil War Book Group

  In partnership with the Central Rappahannock Regional Library, the Civil War Book Group meets once a month.

• 

  Chancellorsville Anniversary

  Learn about special programs for the upcoming anniversary of the Battle of Chancellorsville.

 

 

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See the Calendar for a full listing of park events and programs.

If you are interested in hosting your own event, refer to the Permits & Reservations page for guidance.

Check out the Fredericksburg community event calendar for events happening in the region.