Visitors to this Sunday’s Washington’s Landing event in Titusville will get something rare: the first chance to walk past the construction site of the new multi-million-dollar Washington Crossing Visitor Center and museum being built at the lower end of Washington Crossing State Park.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) is expected to release additional details ahead of the event, but officials have confirmed that parking will be available in the upper lots near the former Visitor Center, with shuttles running throughout the day. The shuttles will drop visitors near the new building, where a protected pedestrian walkway will allow the public to safely pass the construction site and continue down to the pedestrian bridge over Route 29, which is expected to be open for the event.
Annette Earling, executive director of the Washington Crossing Park Association of New Jersey, said the walk-through will give locals and history enthusiasts a rare preview. “This is a rare pop-up opportunity for locals and park-lovers who have been watching the new Museum construction with interest. Guided by NJDEP officials and a protected walkway, visitors will get an up-close look at a building that is poised to become a major attraction for guests from around the globe!”
Phil Kamaratos, project manager with Kappa Construction Corp., said the timing aligns perfectly with the building entering its next phase. “This year’s crossing gives visitors a unique chance to see the new Visitor Center up close as it enters its final stages of exterior construction and the beginning of the interior build-out. We’re proud to share an early look at a bold civic building that we expect to open to the public in 2026.”
Washington’s Landing in New Jersey
Sunday, December 14 • 11 AM–3:30 PM
Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville
Suggested donation: $10 per car
Highlights include:
- Military encampment at Washington’s Grove
- The First Rhode Island Regiment portraying Black soldiers, sailors, artillerists, marines, and musicians
- Supporting units including Lamb’s Artillery, Motts Artillery, and the 17th Regiment of Infantry
- Ronald Rinaldi portraying General Nathanael Greene
- Cannon fire, musket drills, campfires, and interpretive demonstrations
Talks & Activities
- Haybale Theater lectures on medical life, the March to Trenton, and a preview of the new museum
- Make-your-own tri-corner hats
- Photo ops in reproduction Durham boats
- Kid-friendly costumes and activities
Food & Hospitality
- Free hot cider at the Nelson House
- Vendors including L’Annexe de Mamie Collette, Relish the Dog, and Nomad Pizza
Parking & Access
- Parking only in the upper park; shuttles all day
- Accessible parking before 10 AM
- Bridge closes to vehicles around 10 AM
- More info: www.wcpa-nj.com/landing
Across the River: First Crossing Rehearsal
Sunday, December 14 • 10 AM–3 PM
Actual boat launch at 1 PM
Washington Crossing Historic Park (PA)
The Pennsylvania side will host its annual First Crossing Rehearsal, featuring hundreds of reenactors rowing Durham boats, military demonstrations, 18th-century trades, and living history throughout the Historic Village.
Tickets: $9 adults, $5 ages 5–11, under 5 free, $25 family rate.
Food vendors, author talks, and members-only amenities will be available. Tickets may be purchased at the gate.
Two Events, One Story
While organized separately, the New Jersey encampment and the Pennsylvania river rehearsal are intentionally timed so visitors can experience both sides of Washington’s 1776 campaign in one afternoon. The weekend sets the stage for the full ceremonial Christmas Day crossing — a tradition more than six decades old — and comes as the region prepares for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
This Sunday offers a chance to not only to watch history reenacted, but also to glimpse Hopewell Valley’s newest landmark taking shape, as the Visitor Center edges closer to opening for America’s Semiquincentennial in 2026.
