Washington Crossing Historic Park in Upper Makefield Township is set to host the 72nd annual reenactments of General George Washington’s pivotal 1776 Delaware River crossing.
The park will hold two public events this month, including the First Crossing on Sunday, December 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the Christmas Day Crossing on Wednesday, December 25, from noon to 3 p.m.
The First Crossing, which serves both as a fundraiser and rehearsal, will feature historical reenactments, speeches, and activities from the Colonial era. Highlights include demonstrations by a period baker, soldiers drilling, cannon fire, as well as performances by the park’s fife and drum corps. Artisans will showcase colonial goods, and visitors can enjoy blacksmithing displays and an encampment, according to organizers.
The reenactment will culminate at 1 p.m. with soldiers rowing across the river in replica Durham boats, if river conditions are permitting.
Charles R. Bowery, Jr., executive director of the U.S. Army Center of Military History, and Jason A. Cherry, an independent historian, be on hand for the event.
Admission to the First Crossing event is priced at $9 for adults and $5 for children aged 5-11, with free entry for those under 5. A family package is also available for $25, covering two adults and two children. Advance tickets can be purchased at WashingtonCrossingPark.org/cross-with-us. Members of the Friends of Washington Crossing Park will receive access to a heated, members-only tent with refreshments sponsored by Amwell Ridge Wealth Management.
The Christmas Day event on December 25 is free of charge due to proceeds from the First Crossing. The event will replicate the historic crossing, with hundreds of reenactors in Continental Army uniforms. The crossing is scheduled for 1 p.m., and visitors are advised to arrive by 11:30 a.m. to secure good viewing spots, organizers said.
Both events are dependent on safe river and weather conditions. If conditions are not favorable, the park will still offer a full schedule of historic ceremonies, speeches, and colonial-era activities.
For more information and updates on the events, visit WashingtonCrossingPark.org.
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