SAVANNAH — Fort Pulaski will again commemorate the Confederate Nog Party of 1861 on Friday, Dec. 18, and Saturday, Dec. 19. The long-lived Savannah tradition will continue this year with nighttime tours of the fort by candlelight and oil lamps.

The original party, held during Christmas 1861, gave the Confederate garrison at Fort Pulaski a respite from the tension of impending battle. The fort casemates, armed with cannon, were decorated with holiday garlands and as one soldier commented, tables groaned under the weight of fine delicacies sent down from the city.

With song and good cheer, the men celebrated a lighthearted moment as the dark clouds of war gathered over Savannah.

Visitors will can take a guided tour of the fort by candlelight. Hot cider and cookies, caroling, and nighttime weapons firings will allow visitors to relive the festive occasion.

Seven programs will be offered each evening, starting every half hour, from 6-9 p.m.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is on Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah, near Tybee Island.

Tickets are $10 per adult and $3 per child ages 4-15. Children age 3 and younger are free, but reservations must be made for them. Advanced ticket purchase is recommended and may be purchased in person from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. by cash, check (made payable to “National Park Service”) or credit card. Credit card orders are accepted by phone at 912-786-4383.

Learn more about Fort Pulaski National Monument at www.nps.gov/fopu or go to the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FortPulaskiNPS  or Twitter at www.twitter.com/FortPulaskiNPS.