Traditional Muster Day at Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, MA

Muster Day was a traditional, annual holiday celebrated by early Americans which brought out a town's military force in full regalia to demonstrate their skill for the townsfolk. The soldiers would engage in a variety of maneuvers and drills, then compete in contests of strength and skill, much like earlier jousting competitions between knights.

At Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, Muster Day is celebrated in grand style, according to the traditions of early 19th century New Englanders. This year, the celebration fell on May 16th, and featured local marines from the U.S.S. Constitution in Boston as they went through a series of drills and marches. Guests are welcome to participate in family-friendly activities, such as a French vs. English tug-of-war, crafts and races, and village coach rides. The sounds of military drums and fifes are to be heard in the background all day.

Muster Day is free with the price of admission and next falls on the 15th of May, 2010. Any active military personnel enjoy a 50% discount to their admission price.

Points of Interest

Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, MA

Old Sturbridge Village is a living history museum that invites visitors to travel back in time and explore New England's past.