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Have you ever wanted to see the Civil War firsthand or retrace the steps of Christ?  You won’t need to build a time machine to venture into the past because the following seven reenactment festivals do the work for you.  You’re just required to come and witness history unfold like never before.  Not even the world-class movie producers can capture these eventful moments as great as watching them live in action.  

Gibsland, LA: Bonnie and Clyde Festival

It would be best to get out of the way to avoid a body full of bullet holes like the infamous couple, Bonnie and Clyde.  But the rounds of ammos signifying their classic ambush is the main event that brings a massive crowd to the streets of Gibsland, LA. 

On May 23, 1934, the bank robbing days and killing sprees of Bonnie and Clyde came to an end when the stolen Ford Deluxe vehicle they were in was suddenly ambushed by police in Louisiana. Commemorating this eventful day, locals gather on the Friday and Saturday that is closest to the anniversary of their death to listen to live entertainment and guest speakers, while the fragrance of Jambalaya magnetically draws them closer. The next day, the celebration brings the best Bonnie and Clyde impersonators as well as the ambushing officers for the battle of the look-alike contest. Ultimately the festival ends with a big bang, which is the vigorous shootout that laid the couple to rest.

Jerash, Jordan:  The Roman Army and Chariot Race (RACE)

Imagine taking a journey to ancient Rome and witnessing the gory bloodbath of gladiators fighting for the death amid a cheering crowd. At the Roman Army and Chariot Race (RACE), the well-suited warriors may not be trying to kill each other, but the clanking of swords and the sizzling chariot races definitely paint the picture.

Set in the Jordanian City, Jerash, RACE offers a trip to the Roman Decapolis like never before.  After witnessing this live show, epic films like “Ben Hur” and “Gladiator” will pale in comparison, since it is set in authentic Romanesque landscape decorated with chariot tracks and rustic grounds mirroring Rome’s Coliseum.  There’s no trip to Rome without delving into the dynamic era of gladiators. And by the skillfulness of the fighters and the histrionic horse drawn races, no movie can provide action this real.

Pisa, Italy: The Game of the Bridge (II Gioco del Ponte)

The Game of the Bridge is no laughing matter in Pisa.  In fact, some men were drenched in blood when it came to defending the honor of the bridge overlooking the Arno River during the 1500s.  The reenactment of the bloody procession is less about the violence, but more about six rival teams dressed to the nines in 18^th century wardrobe, taking their positions at the feet of the bridge with their banners in tow.

Two players of each team are expected to push a wooden trolley along a 50-yard track within enemy lines.  The first to knock over the staff that contains their opponent's banner wins that round.  This is repeated a number of times in order for the 60 judges to determine which team ultimately has won the most challenges.

Chestertown, MD: Chestertown Tea Party Festival

The cup of tea you may sip in the morning has a profound history that not only exists in Boston, but in Chestertown, Maryland as well.  To revolt against the closing of the port of Boston, locals marched to the sounds of their frustrations to the brigantine Geddes located in the Chester River to throw loads of tea into the water.

As the grains of the drink slowly sank to the bottom, this profound gesture would signify their stance on British colonization.  Every year, the residents migrate near the Chester River to see this bold declaration reiterated throughout the 18^th century district of Centertown.  From the Colonial Parade to the Cocktail Party, the Chestertown Tea Party Festival, May 22-25 is one interesting journey into U.S. history that is worth the visit.

Bruges, Belgium: Procession of the Holy Blood

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live during the Old and New Testament, here’s your chance to see its iconic and notorious characters as well as famous stories come to life on May 14, 2015.  The cobblestone pathways and historic architecture of Bruges, Belgium provides the perfect backdrop for exploring century-old legends as they emerge out of the holy book and appear in their truest form.

From Joseph with his herd of goats in tow and King David perched high on his throne, to visions of the three wise men, you’ll want to stay and retrace the bible one chapter at a time.

Jackson, Michigan: Civil War Muster

About 1,500 armed men dressed as soldiers in the Civil War makes this reenactment festival, Aug. 23, one of the biggest in the U.S.  Rounds of gunshots ringing through the air may scare any bystander unfamiliar to this annual celebration, but they also indicate the show has begun as well as provide a historic lesson no classroom can come close to. 

Whether you’re into history or not, you’ll have to admit the serious faces of these soldiers and medical demonstrations display the unwavering danger that soldiers face on a day-to-day basis. With the American flag raised high blended with the rhythmic march of the performers, the Civil War Muster authentically recreates life in the trenches.

Indiana: Pioneer Crafts Festival

Once again we’re taking a trip to the past to relive some of the world’s most interesting eras.  At the Pioneer Crafts Festival, Sept. 6 and 7, children and adults alike will find solace in the 1800s, where flintlock shooting, steel fire starting and forging iron are a part of everyday life.

So if you need a break from a society ruled by technology, you won’t want to miss visiting the blacksmith shop or watching Civil War soldiers mark their territory by lighting and unloading the cannon.  As folk singing and bagpipes lure guests with their interesting melodies, the Pioneer Crafts Festival is as entertaining as it is historic.