The Texas frontier will come alive April 4 as Fort Martin Scott State Historic Site in Fredericksburg invites visitors to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and spirit of the American West in the 2nd Annual Frontier Fest.
From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., the fort will transform into a bustling frontier outpost, complete with living history interpreters in period clothing demonstrating the skills, trades, and daily tasks that made up the life of early soldiers, settlers, and frontiersmen. Guests can watch blacksmiths at the forge, learn about frontier craftsmanship, and take part in hands-on activities including foam-tipped archery, axe-throwing, and old-fashioned games—and experience the boom of live cannon demonstrations presented at select times throughout the day.
Prior to the Civil War, the U.S. Army experimented with the use of camels to transport supplies across the arid Southwest. To honor the Army’s use of these animals, and to honor one of the state’s icons, longhorns and camels will be on display throughout the day, offering unique photo opportunities and insights into the livestock that once roamed or passed through the region.
As visitors explore one of the oldest U.S. Army forts in Texas, they’ll enjoy live music from Jake Martin (12-3 p.m.) and The Bad Habits (4-7 p.m.), adding to the atmosphere.
Frontier Fest is free to attend. Food from local vendors and drink tickets for alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase inside the fort.
Guests can park in the new parking lot for the site at 1618 E. Main St. in Fredericksburg. The entrance of the parking lot is located at the intersection of East Main Street and Heritage Hills Drive where there is a stoplight.