For years, history buffs and those with a curious mind have been able to relive the Revolution by witnessing reenactments of Washington's Crossing.
On Dec. 25, 1776, General George Washington ordered his troops to gather at McKonkey's Ferry on the Pennsylvania side of the Delaware River. Shortly after, a group of boats transported troops and artillery equipment across the ice-filled river to New Jersey, marking a pivotal point in the war.
In 2025, locals will have two different opportunities to experience these events firsthand on Dec. 14 and Christmas Day (Dec. 25.) The historical activation features a speech from a performer playing General Washington, a replica demonstration of the crossing, hundreds of reenactors in full Continental Army uniform, activities, games and more.
The first crossing on Sunday, Dec. 14 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m., actual crossing at 1 p.m.) features a bevy of activities. Bread samples from a period baker (Half Crown Bakehouse) will be on site, kids can participate in military drills with toy muskets, officers’ wives will be on site for tea and conversation, cannons will be fired, blacksmiths will demonstrate their craft, and colonial-era games will be in full swing.
This year’s event on Dec. 14 will also feature Tom Hand, founder of Americana Corner, as guest narrator and featured author. Hand will also participate in a special book signing and presentation featuring his recent works: 'An American Triumph: America’s Founding Era through the Lives of Ben Franklin, George Washington, and John Adams' and 'America Victorious: Lesser-Known Campaigns and Commanders That Helped Win American Independence.'
As a release notes, Members of the Friends of Washington Crossing Park can receive passes to a heated members-only tent with refreshments as well on this date. Admission for the Dec. 14 event is $9 for adults, $5 for children aged 5-11, and free for children under 5. A special family package is also available for $25 (two adults, two children). Tickets can be purchased in advance at WashingtonCrossingPark.org/cross-with-us. Proceeds from this event enable the Historic Park to offer the second Christmas Day Crossing reenactment free of charge.
Speaking of, the 73rd annual Christmas Day Crossing will take place from noon to 3 p.m. (actual crossing at 1 p.m.). Arrival by 11:30 a.m. is recommended to secure a good view of this free event.
As a release notes, both River Crossings are contingent upon safe weather conditions for participants. However, even if conditions do not allow for crossing, guests can still participate in historic ceremonies, speeches, and commemorative colonial-era activities.
To find out more information on Washington's Crossing (taking place at the intersection of Routes 532 and 32 River Road in Bucks County), visit washingtoncrossingpark.org
