Emerald Coast

"Race to the Rhein" World War II Living History Weekend

  • When: From Sunday, September 3, 2023
    To Tuesday, September 5, 2023
  • Location: Spanish Trail Park, Crestview; enter and park off Stillwell Boulevard
  • Cost: Free

In scenes reminiscent of battles fought in the Netherlands and Low Countries almost 80 years ago, German and Allied troops will invade Crestview over Labor Day weekend and fight periodic skirmishes in Spanish Trail Park. But there’s no need to dash for the nearest air raid shelter: The Sept. 1-3 event is an educational World War II reenactment program sponsored by the city’s Cultural Services Division, its Living History Corps, and the Historic Preservation Board. Called “Race to the Rhein,” this year’s reenactment weekend focuses on the Allies’ sweep across Europe three months after the D-Day landings to liberate the Low Countries, deny the German occupiers access to key ports in the Netherlands, and cross the Rhein into the German homeland. Families are invited to leap into history as they tour a temporary WWII museum, visit Allied and Axis encampments, visit with living history reenactors as they portray WWII warriors, try on a helmet or two, hoist a weapon, marvel at WWII vehicles, and watch thrilling battle scenarios enacted before their eyes. Swing to the sounds of a live big band in a USO-style show Saturday evening, 7 p.m., in the Spanish Trail Park amphitheatre. Onsite food vendors will be available.

  • Website: www.cityofcrestview.org
  • Contact Name: Brian Hughes, Cultural Services Division
  • Contact Phone: 850.398.5459
  • Contact Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  • Category: Informational & Tours

Sept. 1-3; Friday, student and veteran day, 9am-3pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm, USO-style dance 7pm; Sunday 9am-3pm, church field service 12:30pm

Back

x
Plan Your Family Fun Weekend Today

Sign up for our weekly newsletter that lists the top family friendly events taken place that week, any upcoming events, current giveaways we are running and more!