Step Back in Time at the Historic 160th Anniversary and 40th Annual Battle for Decatur Re-enactment

Lillie Beth Warner • August 23, 2024

Watch as Re-enactors perform over Labor Day Weekend at Point Mallard Park!

In October of 1864, over 3,000 men stopped 39,000 Confederate soldiers from gaining access to the pivotal Tennessee River. Over a century later, the citizens of Decatur, Alabama host an annual reenactment of the infamous battle remembering the men who fought during the American Civil War.


 As Labor Day weekend approaches, Decatur gears up to host a historical event that will transport visitors back to the Civil War era. On August 31 and September 1, 2024, Point Mallard Park will come alive with the sights, sounds, and stories of the 160th Battle for Decatur Re-enactment. This year’s event not only marks the battle’s 160th anniversary but also celebrates the 40th anniversary of the re-enactment itself.


Point Mallard Park will be transformed into a bustling 1864 military and civilian camp. Union soldiers in blue and Confederate troops in gray will don wool uniforms, while women in hoop skirts and corsets will move through the camps, giving visitors a glimpse into life during the Civil War. The re-enactment honors the four-day skirmish that took place on the banks of the Tennessee River, where Gen. John Bell Hood famously declared Decatur "a hard nut to crack."

Event Highlights


From 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on both Saturday and Sunday, explore authentic military and civilian camps. Discover the daily routines of soldiers and civilians through demonstrations by blacksmiths, seamstresses, and campfire cooks.


Witness the intensity of battle as re-enactors bring the skirmish to life at 2:00 PM on both days. Experience the thrill of cavalry charges, cannon fire, and the clash of bayonets as the battle unfolds.


School Day Program: On Friday, from 9:30 AM to noon, students will have a unique opportunity to learn about life as a soldier in 1864. The program includes lessons on the history of various flags, marching in formation, and a blacksmith demonstration.


To fully enjoy the weekend’s activities, park near the driving range on the south side of the field for the best view of the battle re-enactments.

By Emma Martin October 10, 2025
Looking to make spooky memories this fall? Check out all the ways to celebrate the season throughout Decatur-Morgan County!
By Emma Martin October 3, 2025
Big news for country music fans: Rock the South, one of the South’s most beloved music festivals, is making a major move. Beginning in 2026 , the three-day summer tradition will take place at its brand-new, permanent home— The Fields at Decatur —from June 11–13, 2026 . For more than 14 years, Rock the South has grown into a can’t-miss event, drawing fans from across the region to celebrate music, community, and Southern culture. Now, with its move to Decatur (just south of Huntsville and an hour from Birmingham), the festival is stepping into a bold new chapter. This relocation marks the first time Peachtree Entertainment—the team behind Rock the South—will fully own its festival grounds. That means long-term investments to enhance comfort, convenience, and fan experiences for years to come. The new site promises: 150+ acres of usable space for easy flow and bigger crowds. Expanded campgrounds with engineered drainage, designed to keep the fun going rain or shine. More shade and cooling zones to beat the Alabama heat. A reimagined VIP area plus new fan hangout spaces. A second stage presented by Raised Rowdy , doubling the music and energy. Nathan Baugh, CEO of Peachtree Entertainment, summed it up: “Rock the South has always been about more than music; it’s about tradition, community, and celebrating the South at its best. The Fields at Decatur gives us the space to do it right—and to make even bigger moments than ever before.” 
By Emma Martin September 19, 2025
Ninety-nine of the nation’s top high school anglers gathered in Decatur!
By Emma Martin August 26, 2025
Counting down to the #1 spot, here’s what you don’t want to miss this month:
By Emma Martin August 8, 2025
Decatur is about to trade its quiet hum for the roar of engines as the Driven To Give Auto & Bike Show takes over the brand-new Morgan County/Decatur Farmers Market on Saturday, September 27, from 3:00–7:00 PM. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Decatur Daybreak in partnership with The Decatur-Morgan County Farmers Market and presented by Lynn Layton Chevrolet, this high-octane gathering isn’t just for car and bike lovers — it’s for anyone who enjoys live music, good food, and giving back to the community.
By Joshua Bachuss July 18, 2025
No matter what type of food sounds good to you, Decatur has good restaurants that fall under every single category! Here is a guide to the most popular menu items at the best restaurants in Decatur!
By Joshua Bachuss July 7, 2025
The Princess Theatre has two live productions coming up in the month of July that you do not want to miss!
By Joshua Bachuss June 27, 2025
You've heard of Third Friday, but have you heard of this brand-new downtown Decatur social gathering? Here's a list of the things that Second on 2nd offers!
By Emma Martin June 9, 2025
Decatur, Alabama, is gearing up for a vibrant and meaningful Juneteenth celebration this year, honoring the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and recognizing the enduring struggle for equality. This important holiday, Juneteenth, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas on June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of slavery. This was nearly two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. Black Texans began celebrating the day in 1866, and it has evolved into a widely observed holiday. The Juneteenth holiday is a day for reflection, education, and community celebration. Want to celebrate Juneteenth? Morgan County has a weekend packed with events that celebrate Black history, culture, and achievement! Check out these events... Saturday, June 14th: A Day of Unity and Celebration Morgan County NAACP Juneteenth Parade From Downtown Decatur to A.C. Banks Park 9 AM - 2 PM Kick off the Juneteenth festivities with the annual Morgan County NAACP Parade! This celebratory procession will wind its way from downtown Decatur, culminating at A.C. Banks Park. Join us as we march in unity, showcasing community spirit, honoring our heritage, and looking towards a future of continued progress. Bring your chairs, find a good spot, and cheer on the participants!
By Emma Martin May 14, 2025
Your Guide to an Epic Memorial Day Weekend: 10 Things to Do in Decatur, Alabama!
More Posts