History Comes Alive | Springfield, Illinois

Join us this summer as we bring history to life with our most talented cast of historical reenactors yet!

Experience the thrill of Lincoln’s iconic speeches with reenactments at the very locations he originally delivered them.

Don’t miss Springfield’s acclaimed acapella ensemble, the “Lincoln Troubadours,” performing Abe's favorite Civil War-era songs.

Check out some of the highlights below, but remember, there’s plenty more to discover!

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FULL SCHEDULE OF HISTORY COMES ALIVE EVENTS IN 2025

Weekly Civil War Flag-Lowering Ceremony
You Don’t Want to Miss This!

Every Tuesday evening starting at 7PM, experience a breathtaking flag-lowering ceremony! The rhythmic drumming fills the air as the 114th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment performs a poignant tribute in front of Lincoln’s Tomb. The ceremony includes a powerful musket firing and a resounding cannon salute. Each week, one lucky audience member is honored with the presentation of the flag, creating a cherished memory.

Taste History

The hugely popular History Cooks! Presented by Lincoln Land Community College Culinary Institute food demo is back with a summer theme on Presidential Foods. Experience the flavors and stories behind the dishes of past Presidents as we bring history to life through food. From early documented recipes to more recent Presidential favorites, you'll savor the flavors of the past while uncovering the cultural and historical significance of these iconic dishes.

Fridays at 12PM at the Lincoln Home Historic Site.

View the 2022 Recipe Collection!
View the 2023 Recipe Collection!
View the 2024 Recipe Collection!

Join the Lincoln’s for an Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social!

Every Wednesday from 2-4PM, step back in time and enjoy a complimentary cup of delicious ice cream on the historic porch of Edwards Place!

At 3PM, let the sweet melodies of the Springfield Municipal Band serenade you during a special outdoor concert.

EXPLORE Lincoln’s Springfield with Ease on Our FREE Summer Trolley!

Hop aboard an air-conditioned trolley and explore the city's historic sites and attractions at your own pace.

From 10-4PM, Wednesday through Saturday, simply hop on at any of our designated stops, hop off to visit your favorite attractions, and hop back on when you’re ready to continue the adventure. The trolley is accessible and ADA-compliant, ensuring everyone can join the fun.

For any questions, give the Springfield Visitors Center a shout at
(217) 789-2360. Let the good times roll from June 6th to August 9th!

Get your Kicks...on Route 66!

Ace Sign Museum - Enjoy a tour highlighting a collection of over 85 historic signs from Springfield and Route 66. Experience the ambiance and character of the neon glow under wood barreled ceilings alongside Ace Sign Company’s state-of-the-art modern sign manufacturing facility. ($5 Suggested Donation)
Tours weekdays at 10AM & 2PM Address: 2540 S 1st St
Neon Glow & Tell: Legends Neon Sign Park - Soak in the neon at the Route 66 Experience. This attraction offers visitors a bird’s eye view of Illinois’ 90+ communities along Route 66. Come learn about Illinois’ stretch of the Mother Road from a local 66 Roadie & Enthusiast.
Thursdays from 8-9PM
Address: 801 E. Sangamon Ave. (Enter at Gate 3 by fire house. Turn Left.)
Exclusive Route 66 Art Exhibition: Celebrating the Iconic Artwork of Bob Waldmire Springfield Native, Nomadic Hippie, Gifted Artist, and Route 66 Icon. Immerse yourself in the legends creative expressions and awe-inspiring attention to detail, celebrating the nostalgia and culture of Route 66.
Located in The Pharmacy Gallery & Art Space
Address: 623 E. Adams St. Friday & Saturday starting June 28, 2025 thru Dec 2026
Carpenter Park Original Route 66 Pavement - Nestled beside the scenic Sangamon River, this quarter-mile stretch of road has remained untouched and overgrown for nearly 90 years. Beginning July 1st, visitors can leisurely stroll down this historic pathway, enjoying wayside signage that offers fascinating insights into the past while soaking in the breathtaking scenery and rich history of the area.
Address: 1 Carpenter Park Trl. Springfield 62707. Opens to the public July 2nd
Award-winning author Cheryl Eichar Jett tells the tales of women along the 300 miles of Illinois Route 66 in a program entitled Adventurers, Crusaders, and Entrepreneurs: The Women of Illinois Route 66
Program Date: Saturday July 19th, 2025 at 3pm at the Pharmacy Gallery & Art Space 623 E. Adams St.

Click Here

FOR THE 2025 SCHEDULE

SHARE YOUR HISTORY COMES ALIVE EXPERIENCE WITH US... CLICK HERE & UPLOAD YOUR PICTURES TODAY.

gallery

Thank you to all of our partners: