Lake Co. to Host Largest Civil War Re-Enactment in Northern Illinois This Weekend

Civil War Days is the largest Civil War re-enactment in northern Illinois. This annual event draws over 600 re-enactors from seven states, and 6,000 visitors from Illinois and surrounding areas. The event features infantry, cavalry and artillery re-enactors, as well as musicians, sutlers, historical figures and civilians.

About the event
Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the military and civilian camps to learn about life in the 1860s. In the civilian camps and Civil War shops, visitors can meet blacksmiths, quilters, tin smiths and other historical figures from the era. In the military camps re-enactors bring to life activities such as pay day, weapon checks, mail call and drills. 

While exploring the grounds visitors can also meet historical figures including Abraham Lincoln, Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth and Generals Lee, Jackson, Custer, Grant and Sherman. Kids can enjoy special period crafts, games and magic show, and complete a scavenger hunt around the site.

Visitors can also experience a re-creation of the 1863 Agricultural Fair, which features public amusements and horticultural and domestic arts exhibitions. A large Civil War era shopping area and period music and entertainment are also featured. Visitors can bring a picnic lunch or purchase food at the event. 

The event culminates each day with a narrated battle re-enactment, Saturday at 3 pm and Sunday at 1:30 pm. These hour-long battles feature artillery, cavalry and infantry re-enactors. This year’s event will be highlighting two specific battles from the Atlanta Campaign: The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain and the Battle of Peach Tree Creek and will feature a re-enactment of the use of trenches during battle. 

Special display
During the event weekend only, visitors can view a private collection of Civil War era dresses and accessories on exhibit inside the Museum. Mrs. Ainsley Wonderling will be in attendance to speak with visitors about her collection and women’s fashions during the period.

Admission
Tickets include parking and free admission to the Museum. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for youth ages 4 to 17. Children 3 and under are free.

Military veterans are free. Active duty military personnel and their families (up to five members) are free as part of the Blue Star Museums program.

Download and bring discount admission coupons, or purchase advance tickets online and coupon is automatically applied.

Lakewood Forest Preserve and the Lake County Discovery Museum are located on Route 176 just west of Fairfield Road in Wauconda. 

For more information, click here