Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania is now characterized by dynamic landscapes as well significant Civil War battles that took place on the same ground
Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania, this is America's battleground, where the Civil War roared to its bloody climax. No place more vividly reflects the War's tragic cost in all its forms. A town bombarded and looted. Farms large and small ruined. Refugees by the thousands forced into the countryside. More than 85,000 men wounded; 15,000 killed--most in graves unknown.
Map showing location of park.
Large Georgian mansion with manicured lawn.
Historic Chatham Reopens June 6 After Major Rehabilitation Project
Visitors will once again be able to tour historic Chatham beginning June 6, 2026, following a major rehabilitation project that improves safety, preserves the historic house and protects its collections for future generations.
Fredericksburg National Cemetery Luminaria Canceled
The Fredericksburg National Cemetery Luminaria has been canceled due to inclement weather. During the luminaria, local scouts light 15,300 candles in white paper bags. The placement and successful lighting of the candles cannot occur in rainy conditions. The safety of our community of attendees, the local scouts who set up the luminarias, and event staff is our top priority. Due to the complexity of event preparation, there is no rain date.
Ranger speaking in a cemetery lit by luminarias
2026 Memorial Day Weekend Events at the Fredericksburg National Cemetery
As we celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary, Memorial Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the cost of preserving the ideals first articulated in 1776. Visit Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park this Memorial Day weekend to reflect on the sacrifice of those who lost their lives in service of the United States.
A line of four cannons placed in front of crescent shaped earthen gun pits.
Photo by Buddy Secor
Monument in national cemetery illuminated by candles
Photo by NPS Photo
A gravel path bordered by a stone wall leading to a small, two story white house.
Photo by NPS Photo
Trees with fall colors in front of large brick manor house
Photo by Buddy Secor
A cannon in a misty clearing surrounded by sparse trees.
Photo by Buddy Secor
A bowl-shaped field surrounded by autumn trees.
Photo by NPS Photo
A living historian dressed as a US Civil War soldier speaks with a family outdoors.
Photo by NPS Photo
A middle aged couple stand at a visitor center desk and speak with a park service volunteer.
Photo by NPS Photo