St. Augustine offers many attractions that highlight the history of the city with trained, professional re-enactors bringing history to life.

Living History

Watch history come to life at local re-enactments.

Some cities celebrate their past with statues and plaques, but St. Augustine brings its history to life. Here, history doesn’t sit behind glass — it's in the sounds of boots marching down our brick streets, the canons thundering at Castillo de San Marcos, and clanging iron in the Colonial Quarter. Our re-enactors love bringing the past to life, and numerous attractions offer the chance to witness, and even participate in, living history.

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Don't Just Learn About History

Experience history firsthand.

From learning colonial cooking techniques, or crafting historical objects and keepsakes, to marching through town and climbing the watchtower, become a part of our story.

Frequently Asked Questions

Living history is an immersive way to experience the past. Through costumed interpreters, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities, you can see, hear, and even participate in historical moments.

Several historic sites and attractions offer daily living history experiences, including Castillo de San Marcos, the Colonial Quarter, and the Spanish Military Hospital Museum. Many guided tours and seasonal reenactments also bring the past to life.

Yes! Annual events like Drake’s Raid Reenactment, Searle's Sack and Encampment, and the Florida Historic Militia Encampment recreate key moments in St. Augustine’s history.

Absolutely! Many sites and tours are designed for all ages, with hands-on activities like colonial cooking and treasure hunts to engage your whole family. We recommend bringing ear plugs or headphones for younger children, or children with sensitive hearing, to reenactments including musket or cannon fire.

While many living history experiences are open for walk-ins, some events, guided tours, and hands-on activities require reservations — especially during peak seasons. It’s always a good idea to check with the attraction ahead of your visit. You can find more information on specific living history experiences in our full living history directory below.