America 250 Military Days | Living History Military Event | Landis Valley
America 250 Celebration Military Days
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Saturday, August 8 & Sunday, August 9, 2026
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Both Days)
Join us for America 250 Military Days at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum, a special, expanded living-history event commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Building on the legacy of our annual Civil War Days, this year’s program grows into a multi-era military experience, bringing together reenactors, historians, and interpreters representing several pivotal moments in American history.
As part of the America 250 celebration, Military Days offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore the evolution of the American military experience across generations.
This expanded event includes:
- Revolutionary War reenactors
- Civil War encampments and demonstrations
- Spanish-American War reenactors
- Additional historical groups and interpreters (TBD)
The entire museum grounds will be activated with living history presentations, offering an immersive, multi-period experience.
🔥 Living History in Action
Throughout the weekend, visitors can experience:
- Military encampments across multiple eras
- Firing demonstrations (scheduled throughout the day)
- Cavalry demonstrations
- Interactive interpretation from reenactors
- Opportunities to learn about military life, equipment, and daily routines
Many reenactors will be camping on-site overnight, adding to the authenticity and depth of the experience.
🎤 Featured Guests & Demonstrators
- Scott Mingus – author and historian
- Kevin O’Malley – live sketch artist
- Brandon Benner – historic photography demonstrations
- Members of the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution)
- Patriot Daughters and additional historical organizations
👨👩👧 A Weekend for History Enthusiasts & Families
America 250 Military Days offers something for all ages:
- Watch dynamic demonstrations
- Explore encampments
- Meet reenactors and historians
- Learn how military life evolved from the 18th to the early 20th centuries
This event complements our Life in the 1860s Day by focusing on the military side of history, creating a full seasonal interpretation of the Civil War era and beyond.
💲 Admission
- Adults: $14
- Seniors (65+): $12
- Children (6–11): $10
- Children 5 and under: Free
📍 Location
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
2451 Kissel Hill Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
⚠️ Event Notes
- Two-day event (Saturday & Sunday)
- Outdoor event across entire museum site
- Demonstration times may vary
- Weather-dependent programming
Contact Us
America 250 Lecture Series 2026
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
Celebrate the stories of America as we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary with the America 250 Lecture Series at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum.
Beginning in May 2026, this engaging monthly series brings noted historians, scholars, and regional experts to Lancaster County to explore the people, culture, and events that shaped early America and our local heritage.
Held on the last Friday of each month (May–October), these programs are designed as a relaxed “Happy Hour” experience, offering:
- Engaging lectures by leading historians
- Light refreshments included
- Time for Q&A and discussion
- Opportunities to connect with fellow history enthusiasts
Admission
- FREE for Landis Valley Associates Members
- $10 General Admission (per lecture)
- All sales final – no refunds
Time
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (Doors open at 5:30 PM)
Virtual Access
All lectures will also be available to Landis Valley Associates members virtually, with the option to watch live or on-demand via a private link.
2026 Lecture Schedule
May 29, 2026
Patrick Donmoyer
Mountain Mary: Sainted Healer of the Oley Valley
Explore the life and legacy of the legendary Pennsylvania German folk healer known as “Mountain Mary,” examining the intersection of religion, healing traditions, and regional folklore.
June 26, 2026
Scott Mingus
The Underground Railroad in Lancaster County
A sweeping overview of the critical role Lancaster County and the Susquehanna River region played in the Underground Railroad, highlighting local networks, resistance, and the fight for freedom.
July 31, 2026
Philip Gruber
Farmer Revolts in America’s Early Republic
Following independence, American farmers continued to challenge authority in pursuit of economic justice. This talk explores uprisings such as the Whiskey Rebellion and their lasting impact on the young nation.
August 28, 2026
Dr. Scott Sheely
To Market, To Market: Lancaster County’s Role in America’s Food System
From cattle drives to railroads to trucking, this lecture traces the evolution of agricultural supply chains and Lancaster County’s long-standing role in feeding urban America.
September 25, 2026
Lynnette Miller
Fashion in 18th-Century Lancaster County
Discover how clothing reflected identity, status, and culture in early Lancaster County, with insights into materials, craftsmanship, and daily life in the 18th century.
October 30, 2026
William Woys Weaver
Foods of the Pennsylvania Dutch: 1700–2026 and Beyond
A richly illustrated journey through Pennsylvania Dutch foodways, tracing their evolution and influence on American cuisine, with a focus on cultural continuity and innovation.
November 18, 2026 (Wednesday)
John Kolar – Annual Meeting Keynote
Lancaster Gunsmiths of the Early Republic
Serving as a preview of Landis Valley’s upcoming major exhibition, this keynote explores the craftsmanship, artistry, and historical significance of Lancaster’s early gunsmiths.