Redcoats & Rebels at Old Sturbridge Village

Redcoats & Rebels at Old Sturbridge Village, an immersive military reenactment, features hundreds of reenactors portraying soldiers, artisans/and civilian camp followers during the American Revolution. They recreate the sights, sounds and stories of the conflict that gave birth to a nation.

This two-day event features thrilling drills, musket and cannon demonstrations and battle reenactments. Attendees can also chat with artisan craftspeople, tour the military encampments, listen to fife and drum music and interact with both reenactors and Old Sturbridge Village’s costumed historians. This event is perfect for families, history buffs and curious minds of all ages.

Recoats & Rebels

The event ranks as  one of the largest and most immersive Revolutionary War reenactments in the United States. It attracts hundreds of reenactors and thousands of spectators each year. Highlights include:

• Large-Scale Battles: Dramatic recreations of Revolutionary War clashes with infantry, cavalry, and artillery demonstrations.
• Living History Camps: Visitors can explore British (“Redcoats”) and American (“Rebels”) military camps, complete with period-accurate uniforms, weapons,and tactics.
• Interactive Experiences:  Opportunities to talk with reenactors, watch drills and learn about 18th-century soldier life.
• Civilian & Colonial Life Displays:  Demonstrations of crafts, medicine and daily life in Revolutionary-era New England.

Due to the popularity of this event, Old Sturbridge Village asks that members reserve tickets and non-members purchase tickets in advance. Discounted tickets must be purchased in person to verify discount eligibility. Attendees are welcome to arrive anytime after the Village opens (9.30 a.m.) and stay until the Village closes.

Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village, first opened to the public in 1946, is one of the country’s oldest and largest living history museums, celebrating life in early New England from 1790-1840. It is the largest living history museum in the Northeast. More than 200,000 visitors interact with costumed historians each year, experience up-close demonstrations of early American trades, and meet heritage breed farm animals. Situated on 200 scenic acres, the Village is a collection of more than 40 historic buildings – including homes, meetinghouses, trade shops, working farms, restaurants, shops, and three water-powered mills.

Located just off the Massachusetts Turnpike and Routes I-84 and 20 in Sturbridge, Mass., Old Sturbridge Village is open year-round, but days and hours vary seasonally.

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Learn more Revolutionary history in this complete guide to Revolutionary War Sites in New England. Brought to you by the New England Historical Society. Click here to order your copy in paperback, here to order an ebook.