It’s not every day you get to see a bit of Civil War history acted out live in the desert Southwest. In fact, it’s only during “Civil War in the Southwest,” a sprawling 1860s-style encampment in which costumed history buffs re-enact three Arizona and New Mexico Civil War skirmishes — the battles of Picacho Pass, Valverde (N.M.) and Glorietta Pass (N.M.).
More than 200 re-enactors also put on artillery and cavalry demonstrations on the battlefield and host a civilian village, where you’ll find a period church service, performances by a traveling theatrical troupe and costumed craftspeople showing off old-fashioned skills like spinning and bullet making.
Food and drink concessions are available, but you might want to bring your own water, a folding chair and plenty of sunscreen.
• Contact writer: (480) 898-6818 or azajac@evtrib.com
DETAILS >> Gates open 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday; event is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Picacho Peak State Park, about 60 miles south of the East Valley at Exit 219 on Interstate 10 south of Casa Grande. $10 per vehicle carrying four people; $3 each additional person. (520) 466-3183 or azstateparks.com.
