Last updated: May 17, 2024
Thing to Do
History at Sunset
NPS Photo
History at Sunset is an annual series that focuses on areas rarely visited, stories rarely told, or familiar sites seen through a different lens. Park rangers lead each History at Sunset program. All programs are free and take place every other Saturday evening at 6:30 pm. Most include walking, with distances ranging from about 0.5 to 1.5 miles. Participants are recommended to bring bug spray and water and to wear sturdy and comfortable walking shoes.
2024 History at Sunset Schedule is TBD
All programs begin at 6:30 pm and are about 90 minutes.
May 18 - One Final Try: Grant's Last Attack at Spotsylvania
6:30 pm-8 pmBattlefield hike, 2 miles, meet at the Bloody Angle (tour stop 3 on the Spotsylvania Battlefield), 90 minutes.
Join park rangers on a guided walk to examine the often-overlooked fighting on May 18, when US General Ulysses S. Grant tried one last attempt to break through the Confederate defenses. Two weeks of heavy combat led to this moment. Would it all be for nothing? How far would you go for victory?
The full 2024 History at Sunset schedule is forthcoming.
Details
Duration
60-90 Minutes
Most History at Sunset programs are around 90 minutes long.
Activity
Guided Tours
Age(s)
All ages are welcome. Programs may deal with topics including war, death, violence, and enslavement.
Pets Allowed
Yes
Well behaved pets are welcome on most park programs. Pets are not allowed inside park buildings or in the Fredericksburg National Cemetery.
Activity Fee
No
Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park is a fee-free park.
Location
Location varies by program
Each History at Sunset takes place at a different location. Check program details for more information.
Reservations
No
Season
Summer, Fall
The History at Sunset schedule changes every year, but typically programs begin in the summer and continue into the late summer or early fall.
Time of Day
Day, Dusk
Programs will take place in the evenings and end around sunset.
Accessibility Information
Most History at Sunset programs include some walking. Check the individual program descriptions for expectations regarding physical accessibilty.
Assistive listening devices are available upon request (if you need this accomodation and could let us know a day in advance we would greatly appreciate it).
We strive to make our programs as enjoying and fullfilling for as many people as possible. If you or a member of your party needs any accomodations or has any concerns, feel free to contact the park and we will do our best to meet your needs.
Assistive listening devices are available upon request (if you need this accomodation and could let us know a day in advance we would greatly appreciate it).
We strive to make our programs as enjoying and fullfilling for as many people as possible. If you or a member of your party needs any accomodations or has any concerns, feel free to contact the park and we will do our best to meet your needs.