Department of Conservation and Recreation
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Department of Conservation and Recreation
Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Tuesday, Jan. 27. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.
Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 30, 2025
Contact: Kim Wells, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, kim.wells@dcr.virginia.gov
17th annual Veterans Day Luminary to be held at Sailor’s Creek
Honor those courageous people who served in the military
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Luminary event at Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park)
RICHMOND, Va. – In recognition of Veterans Day and in honor of all who have completed military service, Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park will hold its 17th annual luminary commemoration on Saturday, Nov. 8.
“Veterans and their sacrifices are important to us here at Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park,” explained Park Manager David Gunnells. “At dusk, rangers will lead groups of visitors along an illuminated path where historical vignettes will be recreated by historians describing scenes from the battle of Sailor's Creek and its aftermath.”
Staff, volunteers and period-dressed public historians invite visitors to come out to the park for the 17th annual Veteran’s Day Luminary commemorative trail illumination. This solemn event honors all those who have served in the nation’s military, both past and present.
New this year, four guided tours will be offered. Visitors with young children, pets, or mobility needs are encouraged to attend the first tour, which begins at 5:30 p.m. This tour is stationary and is not a guided hike like the three other tours. Additional tours will depart at 6:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. All tours will meet at the Historic Overton-Hillsman House.
“Step into history on a path lit with reverence and remembrance for an unforgettable evening as we honor the courageous individuals who gave their all for a cause greater than themselves,” said Education Support Specialist Alexandria Jones. “Walk the illuminated trail and hear gripping firsthand accounts from the men who fought here—raw, heartfelt stories that bring the past to life. This year’s luminary event promises a moving tribute you won’t want to miss.”
Visitors wishing to honor a veteran by having their name, branch of service and rank placed on a luminary are encouraged to contact sailorscreek@dcr.virginia.gov or follow the link on the event website.
The luminary program is free to the public and close-toed shoes are recommended as terrain will vary. For more information, call 804-561-7510.
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