Special Events

Spring at Appomattox Court House

NPS Photo

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

May 25, 2026 – Memorial Day Event

On Monday, May 25, 2026, Appomattox Court House National Historical will offer special programming to examine the history and traditions of Memorial Day. In the waning years of the Civil War and immediately afterward, communities in the North and South, Black and White, decorated soldiers' graves with floral honors on springtime "decoration days." All programs are free and open to the public. The program schedule is as follows:

11:50 a.m.- Flag Raising Ceremony
On Memorial Day, a special flag protocol is observed. The flag will fly at the half-staff position until noon only. Join a ranger at the flagpole for a brief reflection on those who sacrificed everything for our nation. A bugler will accompany the flag raising.

12:50 p.m.- Traditional Music on the Porch
Enjoy songs from the time period as you learn about popular music during the Civil War and how music connects to the community here at Appomattox Court House.

1:50 p.m.- Memorial Day Origins
Examine the Civil War origins of Memorial Day, including traditions at Appomattox Court House, with a special ranger-led program.

2:50 p.m.- Decorate a Grave
Continue the Decoration Day tradition with a brief decoration of a local Civil War causality's grave.

3:00 p.m.- National Moment of Remembrance
A pause to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while in military service to the United States. The pause will be followed by the playing of Taps.

3:50 p.m.- Traditional Music on the Porch
Enjoy songs from the time period as you learn about popular music during the Civil War and how music connects to the community here at Appomattox Court House.

June 27, 2026 - “Forging Independence: Oxford Iron Works and the American Revolution”

Join Ranger Keith Harvey on Saturday, June 13, 2026 for a special lecture about the Oxford Furnace. Located in present-day Campbell and Appomattox counties, Oxford Iron Works was one of the largest suppliers of iron for the Patriot cause during the American Revolution. Harvey will trace the experiences of Patriots, Loyalists, and enslaved African Americans in highlighting this forgotten industry and its contributions to American freedom.

July 4, 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, July 4, 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.

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!