Events & Programs

Open House Day 

June 8, 2024 | Free Admission

Check out all of Connecticut's offering for CT Open House Day (external link)!

State Museum Sundays

Old New-Gate has a deep and complicated history, which includes colonial mining, the American Revolution, early crime and punishment, and much more, but above all else New-Gate's history is a story about humanity. As part of the State Museum Sunday series, we are partnering with living history groups (June-Aug) to bring the site to life and reflect on the men and women who lived, worked, and were imprisoned in this very space. 

State Museum Sundays are FREE ADMISSON days on the third Sunday of the Month for Connecticut residents to visit our State Museums. Join us for one of our special events, or visit one of our sister sites across the State.  

Lebanon Towne Militia Reenactment

Sunday June 16, 2024 | 10:00 - 4:00

History comes to life with this immersive historical reenactment. The Lebanon Towne Militia joins us in the Prison Yard to present living history demonstrations on crime law & punishment, 18th century music, embroidery, accoutrements of Revolutionary War soldiers, and more. Children will have the opportunity to train in the 1764 manual of arms, and all visitors will be able to watch men at arms drilling and cannon firing. 

Gem & Mineral Show with Mining Reenactment

Sunday July 21, 2024 | 10:00 - 4:00

Join us for our annual gem and mineral show, because History Rocks at Old New-Gate! Above ground rock dealers from across New England will have gems and minerals for sale. Below ground, our friends from Minute Man National Park and Eric Sloane Museum will conduct living history presentations in the Copper Mine. Learn more about the early mining that took place at New-Gate and the eventual living conditions that the mine provided for the incarcerated men.  

5th Connecticut Regiment Reenactment 

Sunday August 18, 2024 | 10:00 - 4:00

Travel back to the American Revolution with the 5th CT Regiment. Living history interpreters bring the site to life with soldiers and prisoners, and so much more. Visitors can experience a bustling prison yard, and maybe even witness a prison escape!  

Bat Appreciation Day 

Sunday September 15, 2024

More Details to Come

"Light into the Dungeon:" A Jack O' Lantern Experience

September 27, 2024 - October 27, 2024

More details and ticket information to come.