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Step 1
Consult Civil War teenactment regiments. They can give you advice and contact information for other regiments that might attend your event. Ask the regiments to help you plan the show.
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Step 2
Ensure the grounds are fit for a reenactment. As the host, you are responsible for ensuring favorable conditions for the volunteers and spectators. Mow the grass, clear any debris and make sure the site is conducive to firing weapons.
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Step 3
Schedule your event efficiently. Make sure the reenactors have time to rest, eat meals, and socialize with the spectators. Provide scripts to the regiments. Make sure the participants know exactly what they are reenacting. The more they understand about the battle you are replicating, the easier it will be for them to perform.
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Step 4
Alert local authorities, so they can be prepared in case they are needed for fires or injuries. Notify the police, the fire department and the local rescue squads.
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Step 5
Keep the names, addresses and emergency contact information of all participants in a file for easy access. This will be helpful in case anyone suffers an injury.
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Step 6
Arrange for loudspeakers to explain events to the spectators. Post a sentry in camp, someone who can watch the gear and answer questions.
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Step 7
Provide potable water, horse hay, bales of straw, firewood and portable bathrooms.
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Step 8
Determine your fees. You either charge the reenactors a small fee to attend your event, or you charge admission. You don't do both. As the host, it's your job to determine what's best for your reenactment. You pay for the facilities and the insurance, so it's reasonable to charge fees, but keep in mind the reenactors already have invested money and time into their organization. Keep your fees reasonable.
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Step 9
Get permission from the reenactment regiments before inviting the media. Once you have their consent, the media can provide coverage of the event and entice more people to come. Consider local newspapers, news channels and radio.
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Step 10
Send thank you letters to the regimental leaders that participated in your reenactment.
