This year marks our 50th Rendezvous – a celebration of the volunteers, families, and community members who have kept this tradition alive for generations. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, we hope to see you at one of Iowa’s most treasured historic sites!
For half a century, the Fort Atkinson Rendezvous has brought together families, history lovers, and skilled reenactors to recreate the sights, sounds and spirit of the 1840’s frontier. From the crack of black powder rifles to the smell of campfire cooking and the bustle of traders’ tents, the weekend is about experiencing the past close up.
This year’s theme is “Lowering the Colors”.
In 1840 the protocol for lowering the United States flag was interesting because there wasn’t a formal, national “flag code”. It was typically based on military tradition. Each day the flag was raised at sunrise. At sunset it was lowered slowly and deliberately often with a drum roll or bugle call and a salute from the soldiers. It was not allowed to touch the ground and was then rolled up. The flag was treated as a symbol of honor. Flags were often taken down during storms or other harsh weather. Many flags were homemade or locally sewn, so sizes and star layouts weren’t standardized. In 1840 the flag had 26 stars.
Rendezvous for 2026 will be held the last full weekend, September 26 and 27, 2026. The fort will be open on Saturday from 9:30 – 4:30 and Sunday from 9:00 – 3:30. The event is free of charge, and a free shuttle is available to bring visitors up to the fort.