Bridgeton Civil War Days

The Bridgeton Civil War Days is a two-day historical reenactment event held annually at Bridgeton, Indiana, specifically within Parke County. The 2025 festival runs from August 30th to August 31st, with hours on Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and on Sunday from 9 am to 3 pm. The event invites visitors to experience life during the American Civil War (1861-1865) by interacting with Union and Confederate soldiers and civilians who portray the era authentically. It offers an educational and family-friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for children and history enthusiasts.

The vibe of the event is immersive and educational, providing a vivid step back in time to a pivotal moment in American history. The setting involves authentic camps and demonstrations that bring to life the daily experiences of soldiers and civilians during the Civil War.

Activities at the event typically include:

• Living history encampments with Union and Confederate soldiers and civilians demonstrating camp life.
• Live military drills and skirmishes, showcasing period tactics and weaponry.
• Signal corps demonstrations, which would involve communication methods used during the war.
• Sutlers and crafters selling and displaying period goods, crafts, and food.
• Opportunities to meet and speak with reenactors to learn about various aspects of Civil War life and history.

The event is designed as a learning opportunity for families and attendees of all ages, blending education with interactive entertainment.

While there isn't a minute-by-minute schedule publicly detailed, the structure typically follows daytime hours with camp activities, skirmishes, and demonstrations happening throughout the open hours on both days.

Regarding accessibility, the event is handicapped accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility considerations.

The Bridgeton Civil War Days complement the larger cultural and historical identity of Parke County, which also hosts the well-known Parke County Covered Bridge Festival in October, a separate event focused on local heritage and covered bridges.

The history and founding specifics of Bridgeton Civil War Days itself are less documented, but it fits within Parke County’s tradition of celebrating and preserving local history through reenactments and festivals, supporting tourism and educational outreach related to the county's heritage.

Contact information for the event organizers is available via phone (765) 548-2093, and additional details can be found on the Bridgeton, Indiana website. The event location is Bridgeton, Indiana, in the western region of Parke County.

In summary, Bridgeton Civil War Days offers an immersive historical experience centered on the Civil War period, featuring living history camps, military demonstrations, crafts, and food, all designed to educate and entertain attendees in an accessible, family-oriented way.