News Summary
Huntington Beach’s Central Park will feature the 32nd Annual Civil War Days, offering free admission and reenactments of pivotal Civil War moments. Organizers expect history enthusiasts from across the country to attend, with various educational activities and lectures. Attendees can witness battle reenactments, enjoy food options from vendors, and explore 1860s camps showcasing daily life during the Civil War. The event aims to provide entertainment while educating participants on the Civil War’s diverse contributions and historical significance.
Huntington Beach will host the 32nd Annual Civil War Days at Central Park on August 30 and 31, featuring free admission and activities open to the public. This historic event showcases reenactments of pivotal moments from the Civil War, including the Gettysburg Address and General Robert E. Lee’s surrender.
The Huntington Beach Historical Society, which has been organizing the event for over three decades, expects hundreds of history enthusiasts to attend, some traveling from across the country to participate in this immersive experience. Two battle reenactments are scheduled for each day, allowing attendees to witness dramatized versions of the significant battles that shaped American history.
On August 30, the festivities will kick off at 10 a.m. with various activities. The battle reenactments will occur at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. A special twilight concert is also set for 5:30 p.m. The following day, August 31, activities will begin with a church service at 9 a.m., followed by battle reenactments at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Notable performances, including Lee’s surrender at noon and the Gettysburg Address at 2:30 p.m., will provide attendees with educational insights into the Civil War era.
The event aims not only to provide entertainment but also to educate attendees on the diverse contributions made during the Civil War, particularly focusing on the roles of Black troops and Native Americans. Various lectures and presentations will complement the reenactments, ensuring that participants gain a deeper understanding of this critical period in U.S. history.
Another highlight of the event is the replication of 1860s camps, where reenactors will illustrate daily life during the Civil War. Demonstrations of weaponry, blacksmithing, and historical attire will further enhance the immersive atmosphere, giving attendees a glimpse into the past.
Organizers have planned for food vendors to be present throughout the event, providing attendees with options for meals while simultaneously supporting the Huntington Beach Historical Society. Free parking will be available at the Central Library, with additional paid parking offered at the Huntington Beach Sports Center.
Originally held behind the Newland House in Bartlett Park, the Huntington Beach Civil War Days has evolved into a significant event for locals and visitors alike. This year, the Historical Society’s core group of around 50 reenactors will be joined by numerous additional participants, ensuring a comprehensive portrayal of the Civil War experience.
Despite California’s geographical distance from the primary battlefields of the Civil War, the event highlights the state’s historical connections to the conflict, further enriching the cultural understanding of the Civil War’s impact on the nation. From the immersive reenactments to enlightening discussions, Huntington Beach Civil War Days will provide a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with this pivotal chapter in American history.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Huntington Beach Civil War Days
- Wikipedia: Civil War
- Orange County Register: Experience the Civil War
- Google Search: Huntington Beach Civil War Days
- Los Angeles Times: Historical Figures at Civil War Days
- Google Scholar: Civil War reenactments
- Orange County Register: Hundreds of Reenactors in Huntington Beach
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Civil War reenactments
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
