Visitors at Fort Loudoun State Historic Area will take a step back in time, when Christmas was simple but festive, on Saturday, Dec. 5.
The 18th Century Christmas event will open with a roll call summoning the soldiers to their posts, just as it would have been done 250 years ago.
Throughout the day, costumed living history re-enactors go about their garrison duties, while taking time interact with visitors. They demonstrate crafts and skills necessary for daily needs such as cooking, laundering, blacksmithing and artillery drills.
Visitors can see an 18th Century infirmary, busy even at Christmas, as well as soldiers’ barracks, the commander’s quarters and the Cherokee encampment. Throughout the day, the soldiers are commanded to sing Christmas carols and guests are encouraged to add their voices.
The daily schedule includes a Christmas church service, wassail tasting and a special candlelight tour of the fort. On this special occasion, the soldiers will perform a rare nighttime firing of the fort’s cannon.
The Visitor Center and Museum at Fort Loudoun will be open throughout the program and light refreshments will be served just before the candlelight tour commences. The Fort’s gift shop and bookstore will be open as well for visitors to find that unique Christmas gift.
Admission to the Christmas Program is free.
For more information or a time schedule, call Fort Loudoun State Historic Area at 423 884-6217.