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'Redcoats and Rebels,' one of New England's largest Revolutionary War re-enactments, brings 600 re-enactors Old Sturbridge Village.

Revolutionary War Re-enactment Returns to Old Sturbridge Village

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STURBRIDGE, Mass. — Old Sturbridge Village is set to host "Redcoats and Rebels," one of New England's largest Revolutionary War re-enactments, on Saturday, Aug. 3, and Sunday, Aug. 4. The event promises a weekend of historical immersion, featuring nearly 600 costumed re-enactors from across the region portraying both soldiers and civilians from the Revolutionary War era.
 
Guests will have the chance to witness dramatic re-enactments of historic battles and skirmishes between colonial and British troops, complete with cannon and musket demonstrations and cavalry displays. The event will also feature live fife and drum music and special presentations designed to bring the Revolutionary War to life.
 
On Saturday, the day will begin with morning drills, marching, and a cavalry demonstration followed by an afternoon battle at 3 p.m. The day will conclude with cannon and musket demonstrations, as well as fife and drum musical performances. The village will be open extended hours until 8 p.m.
 
Sunday will feature an afternoon battle at 2 with re-enactment groups from across New England, including Providence, R.I.; Sturbridge and Boston. They will showcase authentic tactics and formations used during the Revolutionary War.
 
In addition, visitors can explore Revolutionary War camps and engage with costumed historians to learn about everyday life in early New England. Re-enactors will demonstrate traditional cooking methods, baking, and the crafting of everyday items such as soap, brooms and muskets, offering a detailed look into the past.
 
"'Redcoats and Rebels' brings the Revolutionary War to life in a way that engages all the senses," said Jim Donahue, president and CEO of Old Sturbridge Village. "This event offers a rare opportunity to experience history up close, from the intensity of the battle to the quiet moments of camp life. We invite everyone to join us next month and connect with history in a way that is both powerful and unforgettable."
 
Donahue extended gratitude to the family-owned American manufacturer Dexter-Russell of Southbridge for its continued sponsorship. "Their generous support is vital in bringing this exciting event to life," he said.
 
Visitors are asked to purchase tickets online and in advance. The event will happen rain or shine. To reserve a ticket, inquire about participating in the event or for more information, visit www.osv.org.
 

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Possible Measles Exposure at Boston, Logan

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed Wednesday that an out-of-state adult visitor who spent time in Boston and Westborough earlier this month was diagnosed with measles and was present in a number of locations.
 
This could have resulted in other people being exposed to measles virus.
 
The visitor arrived at Logan International Airport on American Airlines flight 2384 from Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, on Dec. 11 at 2:39 p.m. They stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Westborough in Westborough and departed the state on Dec. 12 via Logan at 9:19 p.m. on JetBlue flight 117 to Las Vegas.
 
DPH is working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local partners to identify and notify those who may have been exposed to measles from this individual.
 
"Measles is a highly contagious, airborne disease, which has increased significantly in the United States because of the unfortunate decrease in vaccination rates. It is also a preventable disease," said Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein. "This current situation serves as an important reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in protecting our communities. While Massachusetts has not had a measles case this year, 2025 saw the highest number of nationwide cases in more than a decade — nearly 2,000 in 44 jurisdictions, and sadly, three deaths. 
 
"Fifteen years ago, measles had been considered eliminated in the United States, but that tremendous progress is at risk. Vaccines are one of the most important public health interventions ever — they are safe, effective, and lifesaving."
 
Measles is very contagious. However, the risk to most people in Massachusetts is low because the vaccination rate in the state is high. People who are not immune and visited any of the locations on the following dates and times may be at risk for developing measles.
 
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