Living History

Park staff and re-enactors often bring the park to life and demonstrate how soldiers once lived the 18th Century. Ask questions as they show off various tools and tricks of the colonial life. See what a soldier carried in his backpack. Get an up close look at a flintlock musket or cannon and watch it fire. Look into the shot locker and learn about the many uses of the historic weapons of the time.

Historic Weapon firing demonstrations take place on some weekends.

Please check our calendar of events to find out what's happening during your next visit.

If you wish to join our re-enactors and volunteer with the National Park Service, check out our volunteer page.

Links to the Calendar of events and info about volunteering can be found a the bottom of this page.
 
Side view of re-enactors firing cannon
Re-enactors dressed as 18th Century sailors are firing a reproduction 6-Pounder cannon

NPS

 
Four Spanish Soldiers fire cannon
Re-enactors dressed as colonial Spanish soldiers firing the cannon.

NPS

 
Visitors watch soldiers fire a musket
Re-enactors dressed as Spanish soldiers demonstrate the flintlock musket for one of the fort tours.

NPS

 
Cannon firing from the fort at night
On select nights, Evening tours to Fort Matanzas take place. Night tours include cannon firings.  Night tours usually take place during the Winter season.

NPS

 
Re-enactor describes a display to visitors
Various displays are found in and around the fort.  Be sure to ask questions during your visit.

NPS

 
A line of British soldiers fire a musket volley
On select days, re-enactors demonstrate flintlock muskets, outside the park Visitor Center.  Visitors can watch before joining the fort tour.

NPS

 
A month calendar
Calendar of Events

Click here for upcoming events and ranger led activities.

Cannon being fired surrounded by four soldiers.
Volunteer Opportunities

Click here to learn about the many volunteer opportunities

Last updated: August 27, 2020

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

8635 A1A South
Saint Augustine, FL 32080

Phone:

904 471-0116

Contact Us

Tools

Stay Connected