Old Fort Niagara invites the public to imagine life as a soldier on the Niagara Frontier in the 1700s by attending the annual Snowshoe Patrol on Saturday, February 4, 2017. The fort's staff, volunteers and reenactors will offer programs and hands-on activities about winter survival, the Great Lakes fur trade, historic games and trades. Visitors will also learn about the history of the snowshoe and march into the woods to witness a skirmish between reenactors.

The day's activities are scheduled from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will be suitable for all ages. Visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather as most events will happen outdoors.

Demonstrations are set for the following times:

11 a.m. and Noon Artillery Firing Demonstration

11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Powder Horn Engraving Demonstration

12:30 p.m. Staying Warm in a Cold World (Clothing, Bedding and Heating)

1:15 p.m. Great Lakes Fur Trading Demonstration

2:00 p.m. History of the Snowshoe and Woods Patrol. Join educators from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to learn about the history of the snowshoe. After a brief program, visitors will be invited to wear a pair of traditional wooden snowshoes (weather permitting) to accompany a patrol into the woods. In the woods, watch a skirmish, then enjoy complimentary hot chocolate prepared over an open fire. Snowshoes are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, or bring your own. The patrol will take place snow or no snow.

Ongoing Activities from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Soldier Life - clothing, personal kit, weapons, equipment

Storing, preparing and cooking food

18th century games

Hands on demonstrations of quill pens.

There is no extra charge to take part in the event, but general admission tickets to the Fort are required. Old Fort Niagara Association members are free.