Civil War Reenactment Returns to Mason City’s East Park in 2026
East Park in Mason City will be transformed into a Civil War encampment from September 18 through September 20, 2026.
Reenactors will spend the weekend portraying military and civilian life during the 1860s. Visitors can explore the camps, talk with reenactors and watch battle, artillery, infantry and medical demonstrations.
The 2026 event will focus on the Seven Days Battles, a series of Civil War engagements fought near Richmond, Virginia.
Event details
Dates: September 18–20, 2026
Location: East Park
Address: 850 East State Street, Mason City, Iowa
Admission: Free
Food: Food vendors will be available
The event is organized by the Mason City Civil War Council.
Weekend schedule
Friday, September 18
8 a.m. to 8 p.m.: Confederate camp setup and registration
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.: School Day
4 to 6 p.m.: Camps open to the public
Friday is primarily a setup and education day. The general public can explore the camps from 4 to 6 p.m.
Saturday, September 19
7 a.m.: Reveille
9 a.m.: Camps open
1 p.m.: Battle and surgical demonstration
3:30 p.m.: Auction
6 p.m.: Supper
8 p.m.: Military Dress Ball at the bandshell
10 p.m.: Night fire
11 p.m.: Camps close
Saturday has the largest schedule of public activities. The main battle and surgical demonstration begins at 1 p.m.
Visitors can return that evening for the Military Dress Ball at the East Park Bandshell and the night firing demonstration at 10 p.m.
Sunday, September 20
7 a.m.: Reveille
9 a.m.: Camps open
9 a.m.: Period church service
10 a.m.: Artillery and infantry drills
3 p.m.: Camps close
Sunday begins with a period church service, followed by artillery and infantry drills. The camps remain open until 3 p.m.
Exploring the camps
The open camps are one of the most interesting parts of the weekend. Visitors can see the tents, uniforms, cooking equipment, weapons and everyday items used by the reenactors.
Take time to talk with the people in camp. Many reenactors have spent years researching the soldiers, civilians, clothing and equipment they portray.
Demonstrations will include gunfire and artillery, so expect sudden and extremely loud noises. Hearing protection may be helpful, especially for young children.
For the battle demonstrations, bring a portable chair or blanket and arrive early enough to find a viewing spot. Visitors should remain behind marked boundaries and follow directions from event volunteers.
What were the Seven Days Battles?
The Seven Days Battles took place near Richmond, Virginia, from June 25 through July 1, 1862.
Union General George B. McClellan had advanced toward Richmond during the Peninsula Campaign. Confederate General Robert E. Lee responded with a series of attacks that forced McClellan’s army away from the Confederate capital and toward the James River.
The fighting included major engagements at Beaver Dam Creek, Gaines’ Mill, Glendale and Malvern Hill. Both armies suffered heavy losses during the campaign.
Although several of Lee’s attacks were unsuccessful, the campaign ended the immediate Union threat to Richmond. It also marked Lee’s first major campaign after taking command of the Army of Northern Virginia.
About East Park
East Park has plenty of room for the military camps and demonstrations. The Mason City park also contains walking trails, playground equipment, shelters, a gazebo, a bandshell and fishing areas.
Parking is available around the park, but the closest spaces may fill before Saturday’s battle demonstration. Plan to arrive early and allow time to walk to the event area.
Because most activities take place outdoors, check the forecast and wear comfortable shoes. A water bottle, sunscreen, rain gear or an extra layer may also be useful depending on the weather.
Before you go
The schedule may change because of weather or other circumstances. Check the Mason City Civil War Council Facebook page or the Visit Mason City event listing before traveling.
For more information about the original battles, visit the National Park Service Seven Days Battles guide.
📸 Brian Abeling / Iowa Road Trip
