Meet General Robert E. Lee! General Lee will be on hand each day of the event. Kids may interact and have their photograph taken with the General. David Chaltas is nationally recognized for his portrayal of General Robert E. Lee.
CC News Network & Events: The 31st Annual Festival: The Battle of Aiken Reenactment
Battle of Aiken Dates:
- Friday School Field Trip: February 21, 2025
- Festival: Saturday, February 22 & Sunday, February 23, 2025
Battle of Aiken: Step back in time and immerse yourself in one of South Carolina’s most celebrated historical reenactments—the 31st Annual Festival of Living History in Aiken! Since 1995, thousands gather to witness one of the last Confederate victories, as hundreds of soldiers and historians bring the Battle of Aiken to life. This rare Confederate win saved Aiken from destruction during Sherman’s infamous march in 1865.
Recognized as one of the state’s best events, the Festival has won the SC Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Governor’s Award and the Dr. James Butler National Award for the Best Living History Program in America. The Reenactment Guide also ranks the Battle of Aiken among the Top 10 Reenactments in the U.S.
Educational Day – Friday, February 21, 2025
On Friday, up to 4,000 students will experience history firsthand, as the Festival hosts one of the largest school field trip programs in South Carolina. Students from public, private, and home schools will witness reenactments and interactive educational programs that make the Civil War era come to life.
Weekend Events – February 22 & 23, 2025
The entire family can travel back to the 19th century! Visitors will experience the roar of cannons, musket fire, and cavalry charges, and tour various historical stations, including:
- Civil War Music & Dance
- Medical Field Hospitals
- Union & Confederate Camps
- Artillery Batteries
- Saber Demonstrations
- Cavalry Camps
- 1861 Women’s Fashions
- Blacksmithing & 19th Century Crafts
Don’t miss tours of a 19th-century log cabin, a one-room schoolhouse, and more. On Sunday, experience an authentic 19th-century church service.
Highlight – Recreated Battles
The main attraction is the recreation of the Battle of Aiken, with three historically accurate battles fought across the weekend on a period-accurate battlefield. Watch as hundreds of soldiers take the field in thrilling, dramatic displays, educating spectators on the War Between the States while providing a powerful tribute to the soldiers who fought.
Special New Event – Night Fire!
On Saturday at 7 PM, witness the incredible Night Fire event. See military historians fire cannons, mortars, muskets, and even a WW2 battle-used flamethrower, shooting flames up to 30 yards! This spectacle will also include the burning of a homestead by Sherman’s troops for an upcoming movie production—a must-see for photographers and history enthusiasts alike!
Meet General Robert E. Lee
Throughout the weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to meet General Robert E. Lee, portrayed by nationally recognized historian David Chaltas. Kids can interact with the General and capture the moment with photos.
This weekend promises to be a blend of education, entertainment, and deep historical reflection. Don’t miss this chance to experience history come to life at the 31st Annual Festival of Living History in Aiken!
Tickets and Parking
When:
The weekend each February after President’s Day.
Time:
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Some people spend half a day at the battlefield, but most spend the whole day. Many come for the weekend.
Admission:
Ages 5 and under: Free
Ages 6 to 12: $5
Ages 13 to 18: $10
Adults: $15
This battle is a non-profit 501(c)(3) event, with net proceeds supporting our educational school field trip day and other historical projects. Thank you for your support!
Tickets:
All admission tickets are purchased at the gate. No advance tickets are available.
Parking:
Free. Handicap parking is available.
Food:
A variety of delicious food and beverages will be available for purchase for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including Old South BBQ and sarsaparilla!
What to Bring:
Folding lawn chairs or blankets for seating, covered walking shoes, warm clothing, and caps.
Where:
Battle of Aiken Park, 1210 Powell Pond Road. Just off Interstate 20 at Exit 18 (SC Hwy 19). Take Hwy 19 south towards Aiken, then turn left on Powell Pond Road and follow the signs. Approximately 45 minutes from Columbia and 20 minutes from Augusta.
Weather Conditions:
The event will be held rain or shine! In the event of lightning, battles will be delayed and will resume as soon as possible.
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