Community Free Day – Celebrating our 25th Anniversary

Join us on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14, 2026, as we celebrate 25 years of preserving and sharing Civil War history at The National Civil War Museum! Enjoy a Free Day of engaging programs and special presentations between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

The day will feature a compelling presentation by Rachel Williams, a stirring appearance by James Hayney as President Abraham Lincoln, and many more anniversary-themed activities for visitors of all ages.

Bring your family, friends, and history enthusiasts to help us commemorate this milestone year and experience the Museum in a whole new way—all free of charge.

The National Civil War Museum is proud to celebrate its 25th anniversary with a Community Free Day on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. In honor of this milestone anniversary, the Museum will offer free admission to all visitors for a full day of history, education, and community celebration.

Since opening its doors in February 2001, The National Civil War Museum has welcomed visitors from across the nation and around the world, serving as a premier institution dedicated to presenting the full story of the American Civil War. Over the past 25 years, the Museum has remained committed to balanced interpretation, thoughtful scholarship, and meaningful public engagement.

Community Free Day will invite guests of all ages to explore the Museum’s galleries, which chronicle the major campaigns of the Civil War while highlighting the experiences of soldiers, civilians, and leaders on both sides of the conflict. The day will feature special anniversary programming, live history presentations, and family-friendly activities throughout the Museum.

Event Schedule (subject to change):

Scheduled Programs:

• 10:00 a.m. – Museum Opens
• 10:15 a.m. | 1:15 p.m. | 3:00 p.m. – 25 Artifacts from 25 Years: Museum Curator Brett E. Kelley presents 25 significant artifacts from the Museum’s collections
• 10:30 a.m. | 2:00 p.m. – Dean Auchenbach musters in to the Union Army
• 11:00 a.m. – Rachel Williams presents The Historical Lincoln Cemetery of Harrisburg
• 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. – James Hayney portrays Abraham Lincoln
• 12:00 p.m. – Abraham Lincoln presents

Ongoing Programs in the Galleries (throughout the day):

• Jodi Hari – Civil War era winter traditions
• Steve Ball Civil War music
• The Generals for the Union – Living history interpretation
• The Ladies for the Union – Civil War–era civilian and home-front interpretation