September 5th, 6th, & 7th

The Battle of Middle Creek Reenactment is a powerful and immersive annual event held the second weekend in September at the historic Middle Creek National Battlefield in Prestonsburg, Kentucky. This event commemorates the crucial Civil War battle that took place on January 10, 1862, when Union forces led by Colonel James A. Garfield—who would later become the 20th President of the United States—defeated Confederate troops under Brigadier General Humphrey Marshall. The Union victory at Middle Creek helped secure eastern Kentucky and played a significant role in shaping the region’s Civil War legacy.

During the reenactment weekend, history comes alive as dedicated reenactors in authentic Civil War uniforms recreate the sights, sounds, and strategy of the battlefield. Guests can tour living history encampments, engage with reenactors, take part in guided battlefield tours, and enjoy educational presentations that deepen the understanding of Kentucky’s Civil War past. The event also features a moving luminary ceremony to honor those who fought and a candlelit ghost walk that shares haunting stories from the war-torn hills of Floyd County.

Whether you’re a Civil War enthusiast, a student of history, or simply looking for a meaningful weekend experience, the Battle of Middle Creek Reenactment is a must-see event that honors the bravery and legacy of those who fought on Kentucky soil.

What to Expect

Here’s a breakdown of the weekend’s events:

Friday, September 5th

• 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM: School Day
  • Local schools are invited to bring their students for a day of immersive education. Students will experience what soldiers’ lives were like, witness historical demonstrations, and learn through living history stations. The Prestonsburg Elementary School choir will also perform period songs.
• At Dark: Remembrance and Luminary Ceremony
  • As the sun sets, join us for a solemn remembrance ceremony honoring the soldiers who fought in the battle and reenactors we’ve lost over the years. The ceremony will feature a moving luminary display and a message from Pastor Alex Gardner of Christ Community Baptist Church.

Saturday, September 6th

• 10:00 AM: Camp Opens
  • Explore the encampment and meet the reenactors, who will be demonstrating various aspects of soldier life.
• 2:00 PM: Battle of Ivy Mountain
  • Witness a reenactment of another major conflict in Floyd County—the Battle of Ivy Mountain. Watch as history unfolds before your eyes with realistic depictions of the battle.
• At Dark: Night Skirmish
  • The action heats up with an unscripted night skirmish. The reenactors will have the freedom to engage as they see fit, adding an element of unpredictability to the event.
• 9:00 PM: Ghost Walk
  • Experience the battlefield in a whole new way with a ghost walk hosted by the Truth Paranormal Society. Participation is just $5, and you’ll get the chance to explore the haunted history of the area.

Sunday, September 7th

• 10:00 AM: Camp Opens
  • The camp opens once again for visitors to explore.
• 11:00 AM: Church Service
  •  Sunday service on the battlefield. This service is open to the public, and all are welcome.
• 2:00 PM: Battle of Middle Creek
  • The highlight of the weekend—the grand reenactment of the Battle of Middle Creek. This dramatic recreation brings history to life, giving you a front-row seat to one of the Civil War’s most crucial battles in the Appalachian region.

Those interested in stepping into history and joining the reenactment can sign up now by filling out the participant form here: https://prestonsburgky.org/?p=4797&preview=true.