Annual Battle of Petersburg Re-Enactment Weekend Returns April 18–19 with Expanded Programming and Festivities
Petersburg, VA — The Annual Battle of Petersburg Re-Enactment Weekend returns Saturday and Sunday, April 18–19, at historic Battersea, the home of John Banister, offering visitors an immersive chance to learn about Petersburg’s Revolutionary War history alongside the VA250 celebrations. This year’s commemoration is going beyond the traditional weekend programming, beginning with special educational programming at Trapezium Brewing and Blandford Church.
Festivities kick off on Thursday, April 16, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Trapezium Brewing Company (423 3rd Street, Petersburg). Guests are invited to participate in “Revolutionary Trivia,” testing their knowledge of ‘all things revolutionary’ while enjoying the debut of a special VA250 commemorative beer inspired by the recipes of George Washington and Virginia-grown ingredients such as the American persimmon. Seating is first come, first served.
On Friday, April 17, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm, Blandford Church (111 Rochelle Lane, Petersburg) will host a lecture on the Battle of Petersburg (1781). Historian William Welsch will present insights into the battle, joined by special guest Benedict Arnold for a Q&A session. This is a free, ticketed event. For additional details and ticket information for Friday’s lecture, please visit: https://www.simpletix.com/e/lecture-on-the-battle-of-petersburg-1781-tickets-260033
The main re-enactment weekend begins Saturday, April 18, at Battersea (1289 Upper Appomattox Street, Petersburg). Programming will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday and from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 19. For the full schedule, please visit: https://www.batterseafound.org/calendar/battle
This year, visitors can take advantage of complimentary trolley transportation from the Petersburg Visitor Center at South Side Depot (37 River Street), where the record-breaking VA250 stock car will also be on display from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Trolleys begin service at 9:45 a.m. and run continuously throughout the event. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to explore downtown Petersburg and the Farmers Market before heading to Battersea.
Limited on-site parking will also be available across from the Battersea entrance, with attendants present to assist. All guests should note that accessing the site requires a short walk of approximately 200 feet from the drop-off or parking area.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can enjoy a full schedule of historical demonstrations and interpretive programs, including cannon demonstrations, battle re-enactments, theatrical presentations, and period dance performances. Saturday highlights include the Battle of Harlem Heights and the theatrical performance, Tag, Rag, and Bobtail: Women of the Army. Sunday features a closer look at camp life followed by the Battle of Petersburg Reenactment.
A food truck and restrooms will be available on-site. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs and prepare for outdoor activity by bringing water, sunscreen, and other essentials.
For safety reasons, event gates will close 15 minutes prior to scheduled demonstrations, and entry or exit from the property will not be permitted during those times.