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Appomattox Day

On Appomattox Day, we remember the historic events that led to the end of the Civil War and reflect on its impact on our nation's history.

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April 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEApril 9

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On April 9, we celebrate Appomattox Day, a momentous occasion in American history. This day marks the end of the Civil War, with the Confederate Army's surrender to Union forces at Appomattox Court House in Virginia on April 9, 1865. This event marked the beginning of the end of one of the most significant conflicts in our nation's history and paved the way for healing and reconciliation. It's a day to remember and honor all those who fought and sacrificed during this tumultuous time. Let's take a moment to reflect on this important day and its impact on our country.

TIMELINE

Appomattox Day Timeline

Start of the Civil War

The American Civil War begins on April 12, 1861, with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter in South Carolina.

Union's Naval Blockade

The Union established a naval blockade, disrupting the South’s economic life, and gradually cutting off supply lines.

Emancipation Proclamation

President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring all slaves in Confederate-held territory to be set free.

Union's Total War Strategy

Union General William Tecumseh Sherman begins his march to the sea, introducing the strategy of total warfare that severely damaged the Confederacy’s ability to fight.

Appomattox Court House Surrender

On April 9, Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House, effectively ending the Civil War.

Appomattox Day Commemoration

Every year on April 9th, Americans commemorate the end of the Civil War and remember the significant impact this event had on the nation's history.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Appomattox Day

Host a Civil War reenactment

Gather friends and family to reenact the events of the Appomattox Court House surrender. This is a great way to honor the historical significance of the day and learn more about the Civil War.

VISIT

Visit a Civil War museum

Spend the day learning about the Civil War and its impact on American history by visiting a local museum dedicated to the subject. You can also take a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the events leading up to Appomattox Day.

HAVE

Have a picnic with historical foods

Research traditional foods from the 1860s and have a picnic with friends and family. This is a fun way to try new dishes and connect with the past on Appomattox Day.

WATCH

Watch a Civil War movie

Gather loved ones to watch a movie or documentary about the Civil War. This is a great way to learn more about the historical context of Appomattox Day and its impact on American society.

TAKE

Take a walking tour of a historical site

Find a local historical site related to the Civil War and take a walking tour to learn more about the events that led up to Appomattox Day. This is a great way to connect with history and honor the significance of the day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Appomattox Day is Important

It reminds us of the sacrifices made for freedom

Appomattox Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides during the Civil War. It honors their bravery and dedication to fighting for what they believed in, and serves as a reminder to value the freedom and unity that they fought for.

It marked the end of the Civil War

Appomattox Day commemorates the historic event where Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the Civil War. This was a major turning point in American history and paved the way for rebuilding and reconciliation.

It symbolizes unity and forgiveness

The surrender at Appomattox Court House represented a moment of unity and reconciliation between the North and South after years of conflict. The terms of surrender included pardoning Confederate soldiers and allowing them to return home peacefully, promoting healing and forgiveness between former enemies.