Marching Through Time at Marietta Mansion

Each April, my family celebrates the beginning of the season of Fun Stuff to Do-- at last, after a winter spent mainly indoors. One of the first events we look forward to is Marching Through Time at Marietta Mansion, right down the road in Glenn Dale. This nearby and inexpensive event ($5/person, free for kids under 5) is part Ren Faire, part Colonial Williamsburg, and altogether a wonderful, hands-on journey through history.

Historical reenactment groups from all over the region set up encampments on the grounds of the Mansion, dress in the style of their era, and welcome visitors in search of a glimpse into the distant past. The theme is a military one-- the event's other name is "Military Through the Ages"-- but a good dose of general history is to be had here as well. Every era, from the Vikings (or even earlier!) to the Vietnam War is represented, each in a separate, historically accurate little camp. The hands-on element is the most fun-- many of the groups are happy to let kids and adults peek into their tents, try on the chain mail, and handle the (blunted, of course) weapons of the era. (Be sure to ask, though, because some camps are more easygoing than others!)

My family has attended this event nearly every year for a decade, and we always have a great time talking to the ancient Roman soldiers, trying our hand at loading a cannon, climbing into a World War II-era Jeep, and feeling the weight of armor on our shoulders. Often there are food or shaved ice vendors as well, adding a nice little treat to the end of a fun day-- and the backdrop of Marietta Mansion always provides a great photo op for kids in early Spring.

Marching Through Time is this Saturday and Sunday, April 21 & 22, from 11am to 4pm. Hope we'll see you there!