These reenactors, dressed in authentic and replica uniforms from 1944, will set up camp in Tidioute. Visitors can visit both the American camp and the Nazi Germany camp to see how soldiers lived in those times and the gear they used.

Geographically speaking, Tidioute is set up remarkably similar to 1944 Remagen. The hills, the small town, the river and the bridge are all very similar to how Remagen looked during the war on the banks of the Rhine River.

According to the planning committee, visitors will “witness authentic troop movements, the echo of gunfire, and the thunder of simulated warfare as period-dressed reenactors portray both U.S. and German soldiers in a high-stakes struggle for control. The event culminates in a thrilling spectacle — the explosive demolition of the bridge, capturing the intensity and chaos of World War II combat. This immersive experience offers a powerful glimpse into the bravery, strategy, and sacrifice of a defining moment in history.”

The Ludendorff Bridge was key in World War II. It was the last bridge across the Rhine River that was standing when it was captured in a 18-day battle when German demolition charges failed to destroy the bridge. The capture of this bridge allowed Allied forces to advance into Germany weeks ahead of what was anticipated. It was so important that German forces sent over 367 aircraft to blow up the bridge over 10 days, along with infantry and armor, howitzers, mortars, floating mines, mined boats, a railroad gun, and V-2 rockets. and the United States defended with the largest collection of antiaircraft weapons assembled in one place during the war.

There won’t be diving aircraft, floating mines and antiaircraft weapons at the reenactment, but there will be an approximately one hour reenactment of the initial battle to take the bridge that culminates in the German’s failed attempt to demolish the bridge before it was taken. Over 100 reenactors will take part in the battle.

The bridge closes at 2 pm. on Saturday until the battle reenactment is over. There will be a ceremony to honor veterans at 2:30 p.m. The battle reenactment will take place around 3. There is limited parking in Tidioute, so organizers recommend getting there earlier in the day, carpooling if possible, and planning on the bridge being closed past 4. The exact time the bridge reeopens will depend on how long the battle takes. The organizers also recommend bringing chairs and blankets to sit on to watch the battle.

There is a lot to do beyond watching the reenactment of the battle. Authentically set up army camps for both Germans and Americans open to the public at 9 a.m. Visitors can see how the camps were set up and get an idea of what life would be like for a fighting soldier in World War II. The battle for the bridge takes place at 3 p.m and the camps close to visitors at 5 p.m.

There will be a USO dance at 7p.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church.Step back in time and experience the music, fashion, and spirit of the WWII era. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun night out, this event will be unforgettable. The SIsters of the Forest will also perform at the dance.

On Sunday, June 22, the camps will open to the public at 9 a.m, and living history performances will fill the day. It begins with a church service with US Army Chaplain, Captain Rob Weaver. At 10 a.m., Author Cynthia Sandor will do a presentation based on her book, Landahr Lager: Country Service Year Camp. At 10:45, Deborah Holden will do a living history presentation on being a civilian correspondent during the war. At 11:30, Marcia Bauman will do a presentation on the U.S. Red Cross during the war. At 12:15 p.m., reenactors will showcase the uniforms, gear and weapons that Americans used in the war, followed by a similar program by the German side at 1 p.m. The camps close to the public at 2 p.m.

This annual event ran from 2009 – 2019. The event stopped in 2020, due to COVID among other reasons. Reenactors come from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland and as far away as Virginia to participate in the event. There will be Jeeps, half-tracks, tanks and other period vehicles in the battle and in the camps.

Admission to WWII days in Tidioute is free. There will be vendors, food booths and memorabilia stalls in addition to the other activities. Spectator safety is emphasized. People passing through the area can expect Route 62 to be closed intermittently throughout the event.

World War II days in Tidioute is sponsored by Warren Worx, Hotel Tidioute, Limestone Township, Tim Sabella Logs and Lumber, McKean county Veterans Club, Sons of the American Legion Post 0334, Sons of the American Legion Post 0574, Mt. Jewett Veterans Memorial Club, United Refining, Moore’s Garden Shoppe, Carlson Natural Resources, Clarendon Vets Lounge, and American Legion Auxiliary Post 0574.