photo by Alexandru Bruschini of Mediaology Co.

(WASHINGTON CROSSING, PA) -- Witness as history comes to life with two opportunities to experience the 72nd reenactments of General George Washington's daring Delaware River crossing. This beloved annual event will take place on Sunday, December 8th and Wednesday, December 25, 2024 at Washington Crossing Historic Park, located at the intersection of Rts. 532 and 32 (River Road) in Bucks County, PA.

The crossing on Christmas night in 1776 marked a pivotal moment in the American Revolution. Each year, thousands gather to relive the event, featuring hundreds of reenactors in full Continental Army uniform. Visitors of all ages will be captivated as they hear General Washington deliver an inspiring speech and watch the soldiers row across the river in replica Durham boats.

First Crossing: Sunday, December 8, 2024 - Join them for the First Crossing on Sunday, December 8th, from 10:00am to 3:00pm (actual crossing at 1:00pm). 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: 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; and 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.,  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, William Trent: The Factor of Ambition. 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 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.

Christmas Day Crossing: Wednesday, December 25, 2024 - On Wednesday, December 25th, celebrate the 72nd annual Christmas Day Crossing from 12:00pm to 3:00pm (actual crossing at 1:00pm). Arrival by 11:30am is recommended to secure a good view. Admission is free, thanks to proceeds from the December 8th Crossing and contributions from many generous donors.

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. 

For updates and more information on park events, visit WashingtonCrossingPark.org. 

The Friends of Washington Crossing Park shares the powerful story of General George Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas Night 1776 and interprets its ongoing impact on world history for both today’s citizens and future generations. Through the fundraising and the generous support of our donors and members, we are able to maintain and sustain this significant historic site and welcome thousands of schoolchildren, families, individuals and groups every year.  In partnership with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Friends offer guided interpretive tours and educational programming in the park. The group also holds a number of annual events, several fundraisers and more.