Cascades Civil War Muster in Jackson, Michigan

For two days out of the year the beautiful rolling lawns, rolling hills, and meandering streams of Sparks County Park in Jackson, Michigan are disturbed by the sounds and smells of cannons, muskets, horses, and battles. It's time for the annual Cascades Civil War Muster.

Whether you are a Civil War buff or looking for something to fill a day or weekend, the 25th Anniversary Jackson Civil War Muster can fit the bill. Held at Sparks Park (Cascades Falls Park) this is the largest civil war reenactment in Michigan. This annual event in Jackson, Michigan is great fun.

Reenactments of battles complete with cannons exploding, mock battles with pretend deaths, lots of horses and authentic uniforms worn by armed soldiers are only a part of the entertainment. The Cascades Civil War Muster provides the opportunity to see life as it was during the 1860s with women dressed in hoop skirts, camps set up with canvas tents and used just as they were during civil war times.

While the reenactments take place for the weekend many of those taking part will camp on site at the park cooking their meals over open camp fires observers can enjoy meals from vendors set up on site at Cascades Park or visit many of the local restaurants within easy access from the park. For those who would like to make a weekend of the Civil War Muster Jackson also offers a wide range of motels just a few miles from Cascades Park.

Along with food vendors arts and crafts sales will be available or you can pick up a tee-shirt commemorating your visit to the 25th Anniversary Cascades Civil War Muster in Jackson, Michigan. But be sure you do not leave without quenching your thirst with an old fashioned Root Beer or enjoying some soft serve ice cream from the Cascades Ice Cream Co on the grounds of the park.

If you would like to do more than watch the Civil War Muster Sparks Park also offers peaceful walks around the grounds, the Cascades Falls (man made waterfall illuminated by lights in coordination with music), and play ground equipment for children. The 450 acre park also provides picnic areas, basket ball and tennis courts and two golf courses.

It does not matter if you have a Civil War interest or are just looking for something to do for the weekend you won't want to miss the annual Civil War Muster at Sparks (Cascades) Park. Why not join the over 15,000 others for this exciting event!

Location: Sparks County Park, Jackson, Michigan

Cost: Free

Directions: Jackson, Michigan is an easy day trip from Lansing, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Toledo, Detroit, Ann Arbor, Flint and surrounding areas.

From east or west take I-94 to Jackson, take exit 138 south and follow signs to Cascades Park.
From Lansing follow US-127 south, at I-94 US-127 turns into West Ave, follow the signs to Cascades Park