Colonial Festival continues in adapted fashion
Published 1:30 am Wednesday, August 12, 2020
Reenactments of the “shot heard round the world” went silent this year, but living history continued in a more subdued effort for the Northwest Colonial Festival last week.
In its sixth year, organizers for the Aug. 6-9 event adapted it into a living history encampment military drill weekend due to COVID-19 regulations.
One of the reenactors, Dennis Lawler of Sequim, said a few soldiers practiced drills such as marching, and holding and shooting muskets.
He’s participated with the event since its second year and this year took turns dressing as a British soldier and colonist.
“At night we talk about the future, because everyone is anxious to do things,” Lawler said.
“We’re hoping it’ll be better next year.”
Many previously scheduled events, such as reenactments of The Battle of Lexington and the Battle of Concord Bridge, weren’t performed this year because of state regulations restricting large gatherings.
However, visitors could come into the campground to see reenactors in period-appropriate dress and leading demonstrations to make tools and garments.
Organizers said it was free to visit during George Washington Inn/Washington Lavender Farm’s regular hours at 939 Finn Hall Road.
Masks were required in enclosures such as the farm store.
For more information on future events, visit facebook.com/colonialfestival and colonialfestival.com.
