Battle of Gettysburg Re-enactment

The defeat of Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia on 3rd July, 1863 followed a campaign of battles fought at Gettysburg, climaxing with the Battle of Gettysburg itself, which resulted in more deaths and casualties than any other during the whole American Civil War.

The battle lasted for three days, and the re-enactment does too – but it’s interspersed with live mortar fire demonstrations, costumed dances in the evenings, live musical performances and dramatic interpretations of Civil War generals, spies, soldiers and other characters by professional actors. Specialist historians also hold lectures on subjects such as Civil War medicine, Victorian fashion and Gettysburg ghost stories. The event culminates in a re-enactment of ‘Pickett’s Charge’, the final battle.

To participate in the battle re-enactments, it’s necessary to register with the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee, but other activities are open to everyone.