Washington Crossing the Delaware Reenactment
Hundreds of reenactors in Continental military dress gather along the banks of the Delaware River to bring 18th-century military and civilian life to the park. Visitors can experience fife and drum performances, artillery and musket demonstrations, living history programs, and historical speeches. The reenactment features troops assembling along the river before boarding replica Durham boats for the crossing into New Jersey.
What to Expect
Commemorates the 250th anniversary of Washington's daring 1776 Delaware River crossing.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Friends of Washington Crossing Park
Food & Drink
Food vendors are on site during the First Crossing; Friends of Washington Crossing Park members can access a heated members-only tent with refreshments during both crossings.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
History enthusiasts and families
Vibe
Historic and commemorative
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free admission. Advance registration is required in 2026. – Get tickets
- Hours: 12:00–3:00 PM.
- Parking: A parking, traffic, and transportation plan is being developed for the 2026 Crossing events. Details, including designated parking areas, traffic patterns, shuttle service, and recommended arrival times, are to be posted in late October 2026.
- Accessibility: Visitors with disabilities needing accommodations should contact the Visitor Center at 215-493-4076 or info@washingtoncrossingpark.org.
Tips & Advice
- Register in advance for the Christmas Day Crossing, because attendance is capped for the 250th anniversary and registration is required this year even though admission is free.
- Check the park's Crossing page the morning of the event, since any news that weather or river conditions have stopped the boat crossing is posted there.
- Read the parking, shuttle and recommended arrival time details before you go, because the park expects much higher attendance than usual this year.
- Go even if the river looks rough, because the ceremonies, speeches, living history demonstrations and music still go on when the boats can't cross.
- Dress warmly for standing along the banks of the Delaware River in late December while the troops gather and board the Durham boats.
Special Events & Promotions
- 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the Crossing and the 74th annual Christmas Day Crossing Reenactment.
- New this year: advance registration is required for both the First Crossing and the Christmas Day Crossing.
- First Crossing on Sunday, December 13 is a separately ticketed full day of living history in the Historic Village, with food vendors on site.
- Friends of Washington Crossing Park members get a heated members-only tent with refreshments at both crossings.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register for the Christmas Day Crossing?
Yes. Admission is free, but advance registration is required in 2026 because of the crowds expected for the 250th anniversary. Attendance is capped, and tickets are only available at the door if the event hasn't sold out.
What will we see at the reenactment?
Several hundred reenactors in Continental military dress gather along the Delaware River, hear General Washington address the troops, and board replica Durham boats to cross into New Jersey. There are also fife and drum performances, artillery and musket demonstrations, and speeches.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The boats only cross if weather and river conditions are safe. If the crossing is called off, an update goes up on the park's Crossing page on the morning of the event. The ceremonies, speeches, living history demonstrations, music and other programs still go on.
Where do we park?
The park is working with a professional parking company on a parking, traffic and shuttle plan. Designated parking areas, shuttle details and recommended arrival times will be posted in late October 2026, and registered visitors get updates through the ticketing platform.
Do members get any perks?
Friends of Washington Crossing Park members get access to a heated members-only tent with refreshments during the First Crossing and the Christmas Crossing.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.