Fort Massac Encampment takes place Oct. 19 and 20th

Illinois Department of Natural Resources in partnership with the Greater Metropolis Convention & Visitors Bureau, will once again host the beloved Fort Massac Encampment, at Fort Massac State Park, bringing history to life with its signature reenactments and activities, but this year’s 50th-anniversary event promises something truly special. 

“History Takes Flight” as the skies above Fort Massac will be illuminated by the region’s first-ever drone show, commemorating the Encampment’s golden anniversary. This one-of-a-kind event will blend tradition with technology, celebrating Fort Massac’s rich heritage while pushing the boundaries of innovation. 

A Tradition 50 Years in the Making The Fort Massac Encampment, now in its 50th year, draws tens of thousands of visitors annually to witness and participate in a celebration of life in the 18th and 19th centuries. From military reenactments to demonstrations of frontier crafts and skills, the Encampment has long been a cornerstone of historical education and entertainment. Attendees have the opportunity to step back in time, experiencing the sights and sounds of the past in an authentic setting on the historic grounds of Fort Massac. 

This year, the Encampment will take place on October 19th – 20th, 2024, and will feature all the traditional activities, including tactical battle demonstrations, period music, crafts, and historical reenactors portraying soldiers and settlers from the 1700s and 1800s. 

Education Day, exclusively for schools and homeschool groups will be Friday, Oct. 18th, 2024. 
History Takes Flight: Fort Massac’s Legacy Comes to Life Through Drones in the Sky To mark the 50th anniversary, a drone light show by Skyglow Drone Productions will headline the event, offering a spectacular fusion of history and modern technology. On Saturday evening, the night sky above Fort Massac will be transformed as drones take flight to perfectly paired musical selections, forming images of the fort’s iconic history and the many moments that have defined its place in American heritage. 

This fully customized show will highlight key events from Fort Massac’s storied past, all illuminated through cutting-edge drone technology and music. 

“The drone show is an exciting new way to tell the story of Fort Massac and its significance to our nation,” said Trish Steckenrider, Executive Director GMCVB. “For 50 years, we’ve been dedicated to honoring this rich history, and we wanted to commemorate this milestone with something extraordinary. The drone show allows us to bring history to life in a way we’ve never done before.” 
What to Expect at the Encampment: - Historical Reenactments: Witness battle reenactments, musket and artillery demonstrations, and authentic military drills from the late 1700s and early 1800s. - Frontier Life Demonstrations: Experience firsthand the crafts, cooking, and survival skills that defined early American frontier life. - Period Music and Entertainment: Enjoy performances by musicians playing traditional instruments, along with storytelling and educational presentations. -
Childrens’ Games and Activities: Children will enjoy the entertainment of Mother Goose, Juggling/Magic shows, Roaming Storytellers, and games from yesteryear. 

-Amazing Food: Enjoy tasty delectables from more than 20 food vendors cooking up delights from scratch. 

- Drone Light Show: A once-in-a-lifetime spectacle that brings history into the modern age, celebrating the past 50 years of the Fort Massac Encampment. 

Event Details: - Dates: October 19 – 20, 2024 - Location: Fort Massac State Park, Metropolis, Illinois - Drone Show: Saturday evening, October 21, at 7:00 PM 

- Admission: Free to the public 

- Parking: On-site parking available Celebrate 50 Years of Tradition This 50th-anniversary Fort Massac Encampment will be one for the history books, offering both longtime attendees and new visitors an experience unlike any other. 

Don’t miss the chance to see Fort Massac’s legacy brought to life, from its soldiers marching on the ground to its stories soaring through the sky. For more information on the Encampment, a full schedule of events, or details on how to support and sponsor the event, visit www.metropolistourism.com. 

About Fort Massac State Park: Fort Massac, overlooking the Ohio River in Metropolis, Illinois, has been a strategic site since the mid1700s, used by the French, British, and American forces. The annual Fort Massac Encampment recreates life during the 18th and early 19th centuries, celebrating its historical significance as Illinois’ oldest state park and a National Historic Landmark