Annual Memorial Luminary Tour Returns to Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Nov. 7

News Release Date: October 23, 2026

REPUBLIC, Mo. - Wilson's Creek National Battlefield invites the public to the Annual Memorial Luminary Tour Saturday, Nov. 7, beginning at 5:30 p.m. This free event honors the 2,539 soldiers who died, were wounded or went missing during the Battle of Wilson's Creek Aug. 10, 1861.

More than 2,500 luminaries will be placed on the battlefield at three locations where casualties were heaviest. Visitors can drive the battlefield as part of a vehicle caravan tour to experience the luminaries and listen to the stories of individuals soldiers who experienced the tragedy of war on that fateful day in August.

Luminary tours are free; however, reservations and a personal vehicle are required. Tours will depart every 20 minutes from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Each tour will last one hour and twenty minutes.

Reservations are now open and will be accepted until noon Saturday, Nov. 7 or until all time slots are filled. Reservations may be made by phone at 417-732-2662 or in-person at the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Visitor Center during regular operating hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Email or voicemail reservation requests cannot be accepted.

The tour involves short walks of less than 50 yards over uneven, lantern-lit terrain. Participants should wear sturdy footwear, dress for the weather and bring a flashlight or headlamp. For additional information or to request accessibility accommodation, please contact the visitor center.

Guests are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled tour time to enjoy light refreshments at the visitor center provided by the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Foundation. The visitor center will remain open through the end of the event. Restrooms and drinking water are only available at the visitor center.

The program may be cancelled due to inclement weather including heavy rain, high winds, or freezing temperatures. For program updates, please call the visitor center at 417-732-2662 visit www.nps.gov/wicr, or check the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Facebook page.

-nps.gov -

About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

About Wilson's Creek National Battlefield: Administered by the National Park Service, Wilson's Creek National Battlefield preserves and commemorates the site of the first major battle of the Civil War west of the Mississippi River. The battlefield is located 10 miles southwest of Springfield, Missouri at the intersection of State Highway ZZ and Farm Road 182. Learn more at nps.gov/wicr.

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