Each December, thousands of people gather on the banks of the Delaware River to watch the reenactment of George Washington’s daring 1776 Christmas night river crossing. During the event, several hundred reenactors in Continental military dress listen to an inspiring speech by General Washington and then row across the river in replica Durham boats.

Join us for the First Crossing on Sunday, December 8th, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (actual crossing at 1:00 PM). This is not a dress rehearsal, but rather a fundraising event. Beyond witnessing the historical reenactment, visitors can immerse themselves in the Colonial Era for the day. During this event, families are invited to participate in a range of activities:

• Observe the 4th light dragoons portraying mounted militia soldiers riding on horseback
• Smell and taste bread prepared by a period baker
• See how soldiers drilled in preparation for battle
• Hear the park’s fife and drum corps perform
• Learn how cannons were loaded and fired
• Watch blacksmiths demonstrate their craft
• Browse the wares of colonial craftspeople
• Immerse yourself in a follower’s encampment
• Try your hand at colonial-era games

Guest Narrator: Charles R. Bowry, Jr., Executive Director, U.S. Army Center of Military History

Charles R. Bowery, Jr., Executive Director, U.S. Army Center of Military History and Chief of Military History, oversees the management of 29 Army museums, including the National Museum of the United States Army. Mr. Bowery is responsible for the overall direction of historical matters throughout the Department of the Army and supervises the production of Army historical works and studies. He is also a published author and a specialist in the American Civil War.

Featured Author & Book Signing: Jason A. Cherry

Jason A. Cherry, an independent historian and research consultant, will share his work on William Trent, a notable figure of 18th-century America. Cherry’s latest book, William Trent: The Factor of Ambition, offers a fresh perspective on Trent’s complex legacy and his role in shaping early American history. Cherry has participated in the First Crossing reenactment for five years and portrays soldiers who fought at both the first and second battles of Trenton.

Members of the Friends of Washington Crossing Park receive passes to a heated members-only tent with refreshments, provided by Amwell Ridge Wealth Management. Admission for the December 8th event is $9 for adults, $5 for children aged 5-11, and free for children under 5. A special family package is available for $25 (two adults, two children). Tickets can be purchased in advance at WashingtonCrossingPark.org/cross-with-us. Proceeds from this event enable Washington Crossing Historic Park to offer the second Christmas Day Crossing reenactment free of charge.

For more event information or to purchase tickets visit our Crossing Reenactment Page.