The town of Harpers Ferry and the national park offer several special events annually, sometimes in cooperation. In December, the merchants of Harpers Ferry present Old Tyme Christmas. Visitors will find groups of local carolers, musical performances, unique shopping and dining opportunities, and even a vintage Santa Claus. For one weekend in December, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park offers Keeping Christmas in tandem with the merchant event. Visitors can watch demonstrations of 19th-century yuletide customs, learn how to make ornaments and candies, experience period musical performances, and get a feel for the Christmas experience as affected by the Civil War climate.
In July, the national park offers a full day of living-history demonstrations and special programs culminating in a fantastic fireworks display. This independence event is known as Freedom's Birth. Visitation is high on this day, with traffic to match. The most important thing to remember on this day is PATIENCE. NOTE: The fireworks for the Freedom's Birth event have been CANCELLED for 2003 due to severe budget constraints. Please support your National Parks.
On selected days during the summer months, the Bolivar-Harpers Ferry Veterans Association in cooperation with Harpers Ferry NHP presents Music in the Mountains. Military bands perform outdoors at the park visitor center. Concert admission is free. Bring a lawn chair and a picnic--the concerts are a whole evening of enjoyment for the entire family.
In October, the national park presents Election Day 1860. This popular event allows visitors to travel back in time to participate in the important presidential election of 1860. Rangers and volunteers in period dress bring the scene to life.
In summer and fall, the nearby Mountain Heritage Festival showcases arts and crafts from many vendors. Coupons for reduced admission are usually available online.