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Contact: Eric Schreiner, 804-602-7491
PETERSBURG, Va — On Saturday, July 26, Petersburg National Battlefield will host a series of free programs and tours to commemorate the Battle of the Crater. This 10-hour battle, fought on July 30, 1864, is one of the most famous and yet perplexing events of the siege.
Due to recent flood damage to the park tour road, living history programs will take place beside the Eastern Front Visitor Center. From there, a free shuttle will transport visitors to the Crater Battlefield for guided ranger tours. Space is limited and first come first serve for those attending the ranger program. Begin your visit at the Eastern Front Visitor Center, located at 5001 Siege Road, Petersburg, Virginia. Programs are weather permitting. Please dress appropriately for the weather, bring water, and wear comfortable shoes. Note that there is no food available for purchase at the park. Below is the schedule of programs for July 26:
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9:30 am to 4:30 pm: The Civilian Experience inside the Eastern Front Visitor Center
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9:30 am: Crater Battlefield Tour: Board the shuttle at the parking lot (1-hour round trip)
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10:30 am: Artillery Demonstration beside the Visitor Center (20 minutes)
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11:00 am: Crater Battlefield Tour: Board the shuttle at the parking lot (1-hour round trip)
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12:00 pm: Infantry Demonstration beside the Visitor Center (20 minutes)
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1:30 pm: Crater Battlefield Tour: Board the shuttle at the parking lot (1-hour round trip)
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2:30 pm: Artillery Demonstration beside the Visitor Center (20 minutes)
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3:00 pm: Crater Battlefield Tour: Board the shuttle at the parking lot (1-hour round trip)
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4:00 pm: Infantry Demonstration beside the Visitor Center (20 minutes)
Learn more about Petersburg National Battlefield at nps.gov/pete or follow @PetersburgNPS on Facebook, Instagram,and YouTube.
Last updated: July 23, 2025