Surround yourself with history at Fort Gaines during one of our annual events! Completed in 1861, visitors delight at this site of The Battle of Mobile Bay. Explore the grounds while hearing stories of days gone by, watch live reenactments and see a blacksmith demonstrate his craft. Appreciate today a place where simpler times and historic culture has been preserved.
Battle of Mobile Bay 5K Race:
This 5K Race is sponsored by the Port City Pacer’s. A cannon blast at 9 a.m. will begin the race, the course of which will wind through the island and finish back at the fort, where an awards ceremony will take place. The Battle of the Bay race is one of the area’s most popular races, with some 300 runners expected to participate and it is also a major fundraiser for the preservation of the Fort Gaines. The resident Blacksmith will be demonstrating his craft all day in the Fort’s original Blacksmith Shop.
Colonies of the Gulf Coast:
This is a family style event and everyone is welcome. The Fort’s museum and gift shop are always open. Come and explore life on ‘Isle Dauphine’ in the 1700-1800’s as a French, British and Spanish soldier. The soldiers will go through drills and fire the cannon. Visitors can see the Fort’s authentic Blacksmith demonstrating his craft. This event is also known to have Pirates show so come down to Dauphin Island and enjoy this special event and everything the Island has to offer.
Civil War Trust – Park Day:
Volunteers will help preserve this important monument to honor the brave soldiers who fought and sacrificed in the American Civil War. Pre-register at the Fort, via Facebook (fb.com/fortgaines), or call us at 251-861-6992 .
Community Easter Sunrise Service:
The service will begin at 6:30 a.m. on the Great Lawn within the walls of Fort Gaines and it is open to everyone in the community. Free admission will be given to guests from 6 to 7 a.m. on Easter Sunday. Those would attending are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blanket.
“Battle of Mobile Bay” Commemorative Day:
The well-preserved ramparts of Fort Gaines have guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. Now a fascinating historic site, the Fort stands at the eastern tip of Dauphin Island where it commands panoramic views of the bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Fort Gaines was recently designated as one of the most endangered historic sites in America. The event highlights Fort Gaines integral role in the Battle of Mobile Bay. The cannon will be fired every forty-five minutes in honor of the soldiers that fought in this pivotal battle. Come and experience a living history day for the whole family. Blacksmith demonstration will be on hand all day in the Fort’s Blacksmith Shop. There will be demonstrations of military drills, training as well as the firing of the cannons, and much more.
Colonial Isle Dauphine:
Surround yourself with history at Fort Gaines! Completed in 1861, visitors delight at this site of The Battle of Mobile Bay. Explore the grounds while hearing stories of days gone by, watch live reenactments and see a blacksmith demonstrate his craft. Appreciate today a place where simpler times and historic culture has been preserved.
Renaissance Festival GATALOP:
Hosted by the Society of Creative Anachronism, the Barony of Osprey will present Life in the Middle Ages. You will see Knights in Armor as they storm the castle, view melee’s and sieges. Visit with Lords, Ladies, Artist, and Medieval Merchants. Watch our resident Blacksmith demonstrate his craft in the Fort’s original Blacksmith Shop.
Christmas Through the Ages:
Experience a Christmas of “Days Gone By!” This event is a living history Day for the whole family. Come and join the soldiers from the1700′s through the 1900′s and their Families as they celebrate a non-commercial Christmas. Our visiting children will have the chance to make a seashells ornament and other decorations.