Photograph by Brian Wagner, BWags Photography.

 

Witness the Crossing That Saved the Revolution

Each December, thousands of visitors gather along the banks of the Delaware River to commemorate General George Washington’s daring crossing on Christmas Night 1776.

In 2026, we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Crossing, a pivotal moment in the Ten Crucial Days and the American Revolution.

The Crossing Reenactment brings this history to life with hundreds of reenactors and living historians portraying 18th-century military and civilian life. Visitors can experience historical interpretation, fife and drum performances, artillery and musket demonstrations, speeches, educational activities, and the gathering of troops along the Delaware River before reenactors board replica Durham boats for the crossing into New Jersey.

Two Opportunities to Witness the Crossing

The public has two opportunities to experience the Crossing Reenactment at Washington Crossing Historic Park.

Due to significantly higher attendance anticipated for the 250th anniversary in 2026, advance registration will be required for both the First Crossing and Christmas Day Crossing reenactments.

Please note that this is a change from previous years. Visitors should plan to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets will only be available at the door if the event has not sold out.

Registration helps us prepare for increased attendance, parking, transportation, public safety, and the overall visitor experience.

First Crossing

Sunday, December 13, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
River Crossing: Approximately 1:00 PM
Admission: $10 adults | $6 children ages 5–11 | Free for children under 5
Family Rate: $30 for two adults and two children under 18
Registration: Required. Attendance is capped for 2026, and tickets may sell out in advance.

 

The First Crossing features a full day of living history throughout the Historic Village. In addition to the reenactment, visitors can experience demonstrations and programs highlighting 18th-century civilian and military life, with activities for visitors of all ages. Food vendors will also be on site, see the event listing for more details.

Christmas Crossing

Friday, December 25, 2026

Time: 12:00–3:00 PM
River Crossing: Approximately 1:00 PM
Admission: Free
Registration: Attendance is capped for 2026, advance registration is encouraged to secure your spot.

 

Celebrate the 74th Annual Christmas Day Crossing Reenactment and the 250th anniversary of Washington’s historic Christmas Night crossing.

Several hundred reenactors in Continental military dress gather along the Delaware River, hear General Washington address the troops, and prepare to board replica Durham boats for the journey across the river into New Jersey.

Admission remains free for the Christmas Day Crossing. Advance registration is required in 2026 due to the larger-than-normal attendance anticipated for the 250th anniversary.

River Crossing & Weather Conditions

The river crossing is one component of the larger reenactment event, and our goal is always to provide this part of the experience whenever it can be done safely.

The crossing is contingent upon safe weather and river conditions for participants. If we know that conditions will not allow the river crossing to take place, an update will be posted on our webpage by 8:00 AM on the day of the event. Visitors should check this webpage for the most current information before traveling to the park.

In some cases, river conditions may remain uncertain into the morning. If conditions initially appear unfavorable, we will make every reasonable effort to safely conduct the crossing up until the time of the event.

If the boats are unable to cross the Delaware River, the reenactment event will still take place. Visitors can still experience the ceremonies, speeches, living history demonstrations, military and civilian interpretation, music, educational activities, and other commemorative programming scheduled throughout the event.

Plan your visit:

 

Crossing Reenactment Video

Experience the Crossing through a special video presentation filmed at Washington Crossing Historic Park in 2020. This presentation was made possible through the support of our members and donors.

Additional Resources

2026 Reenactor Registration
History of the Crossing Reenactment
Myths About the Crossing
The Ten Crucial Days

 

Witness the Crossing that saved the Revolution

Each December, thousands of visitors gather along the banks of the Delaware River to witness the reenactment of General George Washington’s daring crossing on Christmas Night 1776. This commemorative event includes hundreds of reenactors participating in presentations of 18th-century military life, including fife and drum music, artillery and musket drills, and gathering for inspection before rowing replica Durham boats across the river to New Jersey. TIME: 10 AM to 3 PM (actual crossing at 1 PM) COST: $10 for adults, $6 for children ages 5-11, free for children younger than 5. Family rate (2 adults and 2 children under 18) is $30. DETAILS: In addition to the Crossing reenactment, the Historic Village will feature a full day of activities and demonstrations that highlight 18th-century civilian and military life, offering fun and learning for the whole family. Food vendors will also be on site. Members of the Friends of Washington Crossing Park receive passes to a heated members-only tent with refreshments. Guest Narrator & Featured Author: Coming Soon!

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
• Watch blacksmiths demonstrate their craft
• Immerse yourself in a follower’s encampment
• Try your hand at colonial-era games
• And more!