Event Category: Historical

  • Princeton and the American Revolution: The Ten Crucial Days

    This is the story of the desperate hours at the end of 1776 when the American Revolution seemed lost.  Struggling through unimaginable difficulties, the Continental Army crossed the Delaware on Christmas, winning three battles in 10 days, culminating in the Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777.  These victories changed the course of history and enabled the birth of our free nation.

    About the Speaker: Barry Singer has been a Princeton area resident for more than 30 years. After retiring from a long career in the financial sector, he has pursued his passion for Revolutionary War history by teaching at local libraries, senior centers and at Princeton University’s Community Auditing Program.  Volunteering for the past 18 years with the Historical Society of Princeton, Barry also leads walking tours of historic Princeton.

  • Hessian Encampment at the Park

    Join Von Prueschenk’s Hessian Regiment and learn about the German Auxiliary troops’ role in the American Revolution. Camp life and drilling will occur throughout the day. For more information: 609-737-0623. Free.

  • Ewing 250 Independence Day Fireworks and Concert

    Ewing’s Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza

    Friday, July 2nd, 2026 – gates open at 6:30, fireworks after 9 pm @ the Green Lane Fields. 

    Heritage Showcase preceding the fireworks: Live music, reenactors, storytelling tents, and youth activities centered on the crossing of the Delaware and its significance to Ewing’s geography and Revolutionary heritage.

  • Second Skirmish at Crosswicks

    Independent historian Matthew A. Leilich discusses a little-known conflict of the American Revolution: The Second Skirmish at Crosswicks Creek. Free. Registration required at https://abbottmarshlands.org/events/

  • Experience the Battle of Princeton

    It is the annual reenactment of the January 3, 1777 Battle of Princeton.  Included is a memorial wreath-laying ceremony at the iconic Mercer Oak and a tour of the historic Thomas Clarke House & Museum.  400 reenactors are scheduled with artillery units and horsemen.  More information will be on our website as of November 15.

  • Patriots Week

    Don’t miss out on this year’s Patriots Week, a popular celebration of Trenton’s revolutionary role in America’s history. Between December 26th to 31st, New Jersey’s Capital City provides the opportunity for residents and tourists to experience the events that shaped our nation.

    The Colonial Ball will take place on Friday, December 26th, at 7 pm at the Masonic Temple. Get whisked away to the past while you mingle with historically outfitted reenactors and dance to the sounds of colonial America. Complimentary refreshments will be served. Period dress is neither required nor discouraged. Tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be available at the door. Tickets will go on sale on 11/17 at barracks.org. 

    On Saturday, December 27th, we will host the Battles of Trenton Reenactments, the battles that shaped the destiny of the American Revolution and our nation. The first reenactment will take place at 11 am at the Battle Monument, the second will begin at 3 pm in Mill Hill Park. The reenactments are free to attend. Come watch living history and follow the soldiers as they march out to fight on the original battlefields. These events are rain or shine. 

    “The Trouble with Trenton” interactive puppet shows, presented by Tuckers Tales, will also be held on Saturday, December 27th. The puppet shows are a family-friendly “mini” look at American history at Warren Street Plaza, on the corner of Hanover Street and Warren Street. The free show includes live music, large puppets and props, and plenty of “revolting” action.

  • Washington’s Landing in New Jersey

    Depictions of Washington crossing the Delaware on Christmas night in 1776 are etched into the American psyche — so much so that Crossing reenactments in Pennsylvania attract thousands of visitors each year. But did you know that after the Crossing, New Jersey saw more revolutionary battles and skirmishes than any other American colony?

    Learn what happened when the troops landed in New Jersey!

    The Washington Crossing Park Association (WCPA), NJ State Park historians, and the First Rhode Island Regiment, will provide an opportunity to experience both the Crossing and the March to Trenton through the eyes of the men and women who lived it.

    This will happen in sync with Washington Crossing Historic Park of Pennsylvania’s “First Crossing” rehearsal event.

    Reenactors who cross with Washington will be met by Ronald Rinaldi, portraying General Nathaneal Greene, who will invite them to an encampment in the Lower Park, anchored by members of the First Rhode Island Regiment. The First RI will portray the roles of Black soldiers, sailors, artillerists, marines and musicians. They will be supported by:

    • John Lamb’s Artillery

    • Motts Artillery

    • 17th Regiment of Infantry portraying the Hunterdon Militia

    • New Jersey Fifes and Drums

    Visitors will be welcomed at the nearby Nelson House, where volunteers from the Garden Club of Trenton will serve free hot cider and donuts in front of a roaring fire. A food truck will be on hand! Free entry, but a $10 per carload donation is requested.

  • Festival of Trees

    Festival of Trees

    November 19, 2025–January 11, 2026

    Morven’s signature holiday tradition returns for its 20th season. This beloved community event features inspired holiday trees and mantels throughout the museum galleries, creating a magical experience for the whole family. This milestone year not only celebrates the festival’s rich legacy—it also launches Morven’s role in commemorating America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Visitation is Wednesday – Sunday 10am – 4pm

    Winter Soirée

    The Festival of Trees celebration culminates with a Winter Soirée on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., set within the warmth of Morven’s historic mansion, beautifully adorned in holiday splendor. Guests will enjoy an elegant evening of live music, array of culinary delights, and festive décor throughout the museum.

  • Remember George Washington’s March to Trenton

    The West Trenton Garden Club maintains Birmingham Park which is at the corner of Bear Tavern Road and Upper Ferry Road in Ewing Township. This is the corner where George Washington’s troops split on their march towards Trenton and attacked the German Hessians from two directions on that snowy night on December 1776.  We will have a costumed reenactor that can tell the story of the importance of our park’s location and the victory of Washington’s march on Trenton that historical night. We will have flags available for our visitors to place around the perimeter of the park so it will be decorated for the 4th of July. Refreshments will also be served.

  • Ewing 250 Independence Day Fireworks and Concert

    Ewing’s Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza

    Friday, July 2nd, 2026 – gates open at 6:30, fireworks after 9 pm @ the Green Lane Fields. 

    Heritage Showcase preceding the fireworks: Live music, reenactors, storytelling tents, and youth activities centered on the crossing of the Delaware and its significance to Ewing’s geography and Revolutionary heritage.