Living history programs are an opportunity for families, individuals, and school groups to explore an interpretation of our shared past and interact with the people providing it. Participants learn through hands-on activities about changes in technology over time. Programs incorporate in-park demonstrations related to cooking, milling, traveling, schooling, mining, entertaining, and other lifeways. Park staff and volunteers may provide interpretive content while dressed in period attire, often performing activities and roles associated with the history of the park.
Living history programs are most often offered in conjunction with an annual celebration event at the park (such a Pioneer Days, Harvest Festival, Gold Rush Days, etc.) rather than on a daily basis. Check the specific park pages for more information on a park’s living history events.