Each December, the quiet stretch of the Delaware River between Titusville and Washington Crossing transforms into one of the most vibrant historical landscapes in the country. People gather on both sides of the river to watch reenactors in wool coats and tricorn hats recreate George Washington’s daring 1776 Christmas night crossing — a moment that helped turn the tide of the American Revolution.
This weekend marks the official kickoff to the season of commemorations, with major events planned in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania on Sunday, December 14. Together, they offer visitors a chance to explore not only the crossing itself, but also what happened immediately after Washington’s boats touched the Jersey shoreline and the army began its history-making march to Trenton.
This weekend’s events immerse visitors in the broader story of what was happening including the crossing, the movement of troops, the preparations for battle, and the local landscape that shaped the Ten Crucial Days.
Across the river in Pennsylvania, the Friends of Washington Crossing Historic Park host their annual First Crossing, a full rehearsal of the Christmas Day boat launch that draws reenactors, tradespeople, and spectators. On the Jersey side, Washington Crossing State Park and the Washington Crossing Park Association present Washington’s Landing in New Jersey, an encampment that brings to life the soldiers, civilians, Black regiments, and artillery crews who advanced through New Jersey after landing.
With both states coordinate programming, the bridge over the Delaware River will be closed and visitors can walk across bridge and experience Revolutionary history from two perspectives — the crossing itself and the march that followed. Note that there are suggested donations and fees at both parks.
NEW JERSEY: Washington’s Landing in New Jersey
Saturday, December 14 • 11 AM–3:30 PM
Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville
Suggested donation: $10 per car
What You’ll See
- Military encampment at Washington’s Grove
- The First Rhode Island Regiment, portraying Black soldiers, sailors, artillerists, marines, and musicians
- Supporting units: John Lamb’s Artillery, Motts Artillery, and the 17th Regiment of Infantry
- Ronald Rinaldi as General Nathanael Greene, greeting reenactors who “land” from the PA side
- Cannon fire, musket drills, campfires, and interpretive demonstrations
Talks & Activities
- Haybale Theater lectures:
- Marjory Wienkop on medical life in the army
- Matthew Skic (Museum of the American Revolution) on the upcoming new museum
- DEP historian Will Krakower on the March to Trenton
- Make-your-own tri-corner hats
- Photo ops on reproduction Durham boats
- Kids’ costumes and family activities
Food & Hospitality
- Free hot cider at the Nelson House
- Vendors: L’Annexe de Mamie Collette, Relish the Dog, Nomad Pizza
Parking & Access
- Parking only in the upper park; shuttles provided throughout the day
- Accessible parking available before 10 AM
- Bridge closes to vehicles around 10 AM
- More info: www.wcpa-nj.com/landing
PENNSYLVANIA: First Crossing Rehearsal
Saturday, December 14 • 10 AM–3 PM
Actual boat crossing at 1 PM
Washington Crossing Historic Park, PA
Tickets: $9 adults, $5 ages 5–11, under 5 free; $25 family rate
What You’ll See
- Full rehearsal of the Christmas Day crossing, with hundreds of reenactors in Durham boats
- General Washington addressing the troops
- Drills, military demonstrations, and 18th-century trades
- Living history in the Historic Village
Activities & Extras
- Food vendors including Local Harvest Pizza, Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken, Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee, Half Crown Bakehouse, and more
- Author Tom Hand book signings and presentation
Notes for Visitors
- Online ticketing closes before the event; tickets available at the gate
- Members receive access to a heated refreshment tent
Two Events, One Story
While separate, New Jersey’s encampment and Pennsylvania’s river rehearsal are intentionally timed so visitors can experience both sides of Washington’s campaign within a single afternoon. On Christmas Day, reenactors will return to launch the boats for the full ceremonial crossing — a tradition more than six decades old.
As everyone prepares for the 250th anniversary of the country next year, this weekend offers a chance to experience the days that followed the army’s nighttime gamble: the landing, the regrouping, and the march toward Trenton that helped change the course of the Revolution.
