A Soldier’s Life, 1776: Continental Army Living History Camp

Experience daily life in the Continental Army and learn how ordinary soldiers lived, trained, and endured the fight for American independence. This living history demonstration is free and open to the public. 

Schedule
10:00 a.m. – Encampment Opens
Explore a living history camp of the Continental Army featuring demonstrations throughout the morning, including building soldiers’ shelters and tents, Revolutionary food preparation, civilians and camp life during the war, meeting the recruiting sergeant (visitors can “enlist”), dragoons and cavalry demonstrations with horses, and the role of chaplains in the army.

11:30 a.m. – Cavalry Drill Demonstration

12:15 p.m. – Debating the Cause!
A spirited Patriot vs. Loyalist debate.

12:30 p.m. – Enlist in the Continental Army
Meet the Recruiting Sergeant and take the oath as a new recruit.

12:45 p.m. – Forming the Troops
New recruits join veteran soldiers to learn how Revolutionary units formed for battle.

1:00 p.m. – Revolutionary Drill & Firing Demonstration

1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Open Exploration & Camp Demonstrations

4 p.m. – Encampment Closes

This event is part of the 2026 Gettysburg Film Festival: American Revolution.

This event is free and open to the public.