Annual Memorial Luminary

More than 2,500 luminaries will be placed on the battlefield at three locations of concentrated casualties. Participants will join a vehicle caravan led by park staff to the three stops in the battlefield. Along the way you may listen to information about the battle on the NPS app. or website. At each stop, participants will view the luminaries, and listen to the stories of soldiers who experienced the tragedy of war that fateful day in August. Participants will leave with a personal connection and a deeper appreciation of the sacrifices made on this battlefield.

Be Prepared for Your Tour

1. After you register, make sure to record your tour time.  This is when the caravan departs. We cannot guarantee there will be spaces available in later caravans if you miss your tour.
2. Please plan to arrive at the Visitor Center at least fifteen (15) minutes prior to your scheduled tour.
3. You may arrive earlier to see exhibits, the 28-minute park film, and make purchases at the bookstore.
4. Caravans will start lining up at appx. 20 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Give your name to the the ranger in the parking lot to check-in. 
5. From the Visitor Center parking lot you will be guided to three stops along the tour road. There will be an audio tour with information between stops on the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield site of the NPS app. and on the nps.gov/wicr website.
6. At each stop you will disembark to view the luminaries and listen to perspectives of two soldiers.
7. Come prepared for walking short distances on uneven terrain lit by lanterns.  Wear close-toed and low-heeled shoes. 
8. Dress for the weather. The event will take place except in the case of rain, extended high winds, or freezing temperatures. If inclimate weather is forecasted, please check the website, Facebook, or call the visitor center for an event update.
9. If you need to cancel for any reason, please call to let us know so we can open the spaces back up for others.

Caravan Safety

• Keep headlights on while driving.
• Maintain a car length between the vehicle in front of you while driving.
• Always stay with the caravan.
• If you experience an emergency please inform the caravan lead, tail, or a presenter at your stop. If a serious medical emergency occurs, please call 911.
• When you arrive at the stops, cars will be parked in two lines like how you will be lined up at the visitor center. Once parked, turn off your vehicle and headlights.
• You will be walking a short distance in low light, over uneven ground, please take care when exiting your vehicle.
• Once the presenters have finished, please reenter your vehicles and turn your car and headlights back on. To ensure all visitors can experience this event it is important that instructions of the caravan rangers are followed and that you do not delay at the stops.