Why were so many civilians at the Battle of Bull Run?

Washington, D. C., was a day's ride away, which made for an easy trip for people to come and view the proceedings.
Some thought this was going to be the one big battle of the war, and they did not want to miss it.
It was a holiday, a chance for the family to venture out of the city and be part of the excitement.
They were on their way to Richmond and got caught up in the battle.