October's Fort Massac Encampment Canceled

The nearly half-century old gathering draws huge crowds to Metropolis and southern Illinois, sometimes estimated as high as 200,000 people throughout the days before and after a weekend full of 18th-century battle reenactments, military ceremonies, food and crafts.

The agency said that public safety during such a huge gathering during the pandemic was the reason the decision was made, with input from the Illinois Department of Public Health and the governor's office. 

IDNR staff look forward to beginning plans for the 2021 Fort Massac Encampment with help from local supporters including the City of Metropolis, Friends of Forth Massac, and local sponsors and volunteers.