Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park Presents Tennessee’s History Festival Oct. 18-19

Event Celebrates Over 200 Years of Tennessee History

Nashville – Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park will host its annual Tennessee’s History Festival Oct. 18 and 19. Celebrating over 200 years of Tennessee history, the event blends education and entertainment, allowing families to experience day-to-day soldier and family life throughout history. In year’s past, the event has drawn more than 6,000 visitors to the park.

“We are very excited to celebrate Tennessee’s history, offering something for the entire family and all age groups,” Park Manager Mike Cole said.

Free and open to the public, activities will be offered from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. The two-day festival will feature multiple displays and demonstrations by re-enactors and living history interpreters. On display will be everything from the time of Hernando Desoto, Native Americans and early settlement to the Civil War, World War I and World War II.

Each day will be filled with historians telling the stories of their time in Tennessee’s history. Weapons demonstrations at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. each day will include an 18th century Wall Gun, Civil War cannons, and a WWII machine gun, among other weapons. Friday, Oct. 18 will feature a 19th century wedding, 19th century Base Ball and corn grinding with a Hit Miss Engine.

Tennessee’s 54 state parks offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families, or business and professional groups. State park features range from pristine natural areas to 18-hole championship golf courses. Celebrating its 75th Anniversary this past year, the Tennessee State Parks system was established through legislation in 1937. Today, there is a state park within an hour’s drive of just about anywhere in the state, with features such as pristine natural areas and a variety of lodging and dining choices. For more information about Tennessee State Parks, please visit www.tnstateparks.com or connect via Facebook or Twitter. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call 1-888-867-2757.

The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is located at the foot of the State Capitol in downtown Nashville. The 19-acre park was designed to complement the Capitol and give visitors a taste of Tennessee’s history and natural wonders, while serving as a lasting monument to Tennessee’s Bicentennial celebration. In 2011, Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park was recognized as one of the American Planning Association’s Top 10 Great Public Spaces. Additional details about the park can be found at www.tnstateparks.com/Bicentennial. For more information about Tennessee’s History Festival, contact the park at 615-741-5280.

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