The Hermitage, Andrew Jackson’s historic home and Presidential site, have officially announced its upcoming schedule of summer events.
The historic site’s robust programming offers a range of family-friendly, educational and recreational opportunities that allow people of all ages to engage with the history of the property, along with other relevant historical and cultural events.
“We wanted to create a summer lineup with something for everyone, from families and history enthusiasts to first-time visitors,” said Tiffany Demmon, Public Programs and Membership Manager. “Whether you’re learning about Sojourner Truth or P.T. Barnum, celebrating baseball, exploring presidential campaign strategy, or experiencing our In Their Footsteps Tour, we hope these programs offer compelling new ways to connect with the land and its history.”
Highlights of The Hermitage’s summer activities are below, many of which include free admission for children age 13 and younger.
2026 Summer Activities at The Hermitage:
Saturday, July 11, 10 a.m. — Stars, Stripes, and Strikes
Guests can enjoy watching a vintage baseball tournament from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and a live concert that starts at noon. There will be other entertainment, including crafts, games, face painting, an American history trivia booth, a pie-eating contest, and more. This event is also one of the last days to see the Path of Glory display of 1,776 flags installed on the front lawn of The Hermitage.
Saturday, July 11, 5 p.m. — Sewing a New Nation: Betsy Ross and the Birth of the American Flag
Historical interpreter Kim Hanley will bring to life the woman often credited with sewing the first American “stars and stripes” flags. Hanley’s performance will explore the challenges that Ross faced, along with how she and other women played a crucial but underrecognized role in supporting the Revolutionary cause.
Saturday, July 25, 6 p.m. — From Screen to Stage: An Evening with P.T. Barnum
This two-part event will kick off with a screening of director Michael Gracey’s 2017 film The Greatest Showman, which stars Hugh Jackman as P.T. Barnum. The movie will be introduced with a brief explanation of the historical context, and popcorn will be served during the film. Afterward, actor Niell Hartley will provide an in-person portrayal of P.T. Barnum.
Tuesday, August 4, 7 p.m. — Contested Votes: Andrew Jackson and the Birth of Modern Campaigns with Historian Dan Feller
A historian and former editor of The Papers of Andrew Jackson at the University of Tennessee, Feller will explore the fiery presidential campaigns of 1824, 1828, and 1832, including the controversial “corrupt bargain” and the rise of popular campaigning that reshaped American political life. The event will also feature historical trivia, a mock election, and era-inspired treats.
Tuesday, August 18, 7 p.m. — Speaking Truth to Power: A Sojourner Truth Living History Experience
Daisy Century will lead this Living History Performance with a portrayal that brings Sojourner Truth to life. Visitors will also be able to access the Saving Old Hickory’s Hermitage exhibition, highlighting the women of the Ladies’ Hermitage Association who preserved the historic site.
In Their Footsteps: Slavery at The Hermitage Tour
This summer also marks the relaunch of the In Their Footsteps: Slavery at The Hermitage Tour. The 60-minute guided walking tour, which is roughly one mile long, explores the personal lives, labor, resistance, and triumphs of the enslaved community whose work shaped every aspect of The Hermitage. Tickets are $49.95 per person, which also includes access to the mansion and the grounds. It will be available on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on The Hermitage’s website.
For more information, visit thehermitage.com.
