For every member of an American lineage organization—SAR, DAR, CAR, or any group dedicated to preserving our Revolutionary heritage—this is the ultimate bucket-list experience: the Washington Crossing at 250 Commemorations and Reenactment in the Ten Crucial Days Historic Area, December 11–13, 2026. Organized by the New Jersey and Pennsylvania Societies of the Sons of the American Revolution, it places you and your family right where George Washington’s daring Christmas-night crossing of the Delaware launched the victories that saved the Revolution and gave birth to our nation.
Imagine standing on the very riverbank where Washington led 2,400 troops through ice-choked waters on December 25, 1776, then marching with compatriots to the Trenton Battle Monument, Old Barracks Museum, Mill Hill Park, the site of the Battle of Assunpink Creek, Princeton Battlefield, and the graves of Declaration signers John Witherspoon and Richard Stockton. You’ll walk the same ground as your patriot ancestors, share their exploits with children, grandchildren, friends, and fellow members, and feel the electric pride of living history during America’s 250th anniversary buildup.
A Perfect Blend of Solemn Honor, Fellowship, and Holiday Joy
- Friday, Dec. 11: Start with an abridged “Ten Crucial Days 101” bus tour ($150, tax-deductible, benefits the historic sites). Enjoy free time for shopping or revisiting sites, then a welcome reception at Washington Landing Museum featuring Unionville Vineyards’ “Washington Series” wines—Revolutionary Red, Victory White, Battlefield Blush.
- Saturday, Dec. 12: Morning wreath-layings at Princeton Battlefield (8 a.m.), Richard Stockton’s grave (10 a.m.), and John Witherspoon’s (noon). Afternoon bus tours or a public reading of The American Crisis. Cap the day with a festive buffet banquet, guest speaker, and live music at Cooper’s Riverview in Trenton’s historic Ferry District.
- Sunday, Dec. 13: Choose the Washington Crossing Historic Park (PA) “First Crossing” reenactment with wreath-laying or the Washington Crossing State Park (NJ) “Washington’s Landing”—or walk the bridge and do both. It’s Christmastime magic: colonial charm at the Nassau Inn, great food, holiday shopping, and the spirit of victory that changed the world.
This isn’t just an event—it’s fellowship with compatriots, hands-on education for the whole family, fine food and toasts, and memories that will last generations. From Ewing, it’s an easy drive or train ride away. Mark your calendar now and register through your state SAR society or njssar.org. This is the one you’ll tell your descendants about—the moment you stood where Washington’s vision for victory made history. Join your fellow citizens and compatriots. You belong here!