Princeton NJ Historical Sites Announcements

Princeton 250th Celebration Events

Nestled in the heart of American history and innovation, Princeton is proudly celebrating its 250th anniversary—a remarkable milestone for a town that has long stood at the crossroads of tradition, intellect, and community spirit. This year’s celebration is a vibrant tribute to Princeton’s rich past and dynamic present, featuring a series of exciting events that bring together residents, visitors, and alumni alike. From historical reenactments and art exhibitions to lively parades and community festivals, Princeton 250 is more than a commemoration—it’s a joyful reflection of the town’s enduring legacy and its bright future ahead. 

We will be updating this list all year long so please check back. Also, all events can be found on our Events Calendar.  Feel free to scroll to the bottom of the page for a list of resources regarding local historical references.

December 7, 2025 - 

General George Washington Presents “The Dark Days of the American Revolution” 

As the days keep getting darker in early December, it is a perfect time to hear “General Washington” talking about the Dark Days of the American Revolution. Join us as we kick off the semiquincentennial at Summerseat House, General Washington's Headquarters, on December 7th at 2:00 p.m. Sam Davis, portraying Washington, will bring that time in history to life, sharing details of the daring Battles of New York, Trenton (first and second), and Princeton. Summerseat House, located at 130 Legion Avenue in Morrisville, PA, is most famous as the Headquarters of General George Washington from December 8th to 14th, 1776. The well-known directive, "That all the boats and watercraft should be secured or destroyed," was issued by Washington while he was staying at Summerseat. This is a free event, but registration is required.

Click here for more information

December 14 & 25, 2025 - Washington Crossing Reenactment 

Step back in time this December as General Washington's daring Delaware River crossing is brought to life during two spectacular reenactments at Washington Crossing Historic Park, located at 1112 River Road Washington Crossing, PA 18977 at the intersection of Routes 532 and 32. Thousands will gather on the banks of the river to witness this defining moment of the American Revolution, an enduring holiday tradition now in its 73rd year. The Friends of Washington Crossing Park will host two opportunities to experience the Crossing this season: the First Crossing on Sunday, December 14, and the Christmas Day Crossing on Thursday, December 25. Both events feature hundreds of reenactors in full Continental Army dress, bringing the 18th century to life with military drills, fife and drum music, and the dramatic river crossing in replica Durham boats. Click here for more information

April 15 - July 12, 2026 - 

“Nursery of Rebellion”: Princeton and the American Revolution - Princeton University Library 

Drawing on an array of PUL’s manuscript and rare book collections, this exhibition will commemorate the 250th anniversaries of U.S. independence and the Battle of Princeton, and showcase Princeton’s archival treasures from the revolutionary era alongside documents and artifacts that reveal local experiences of the American Revolution on campus and in the surrounding communities. Exploring the Revolution across lines of gender, class, race, allegiance, and status, the exhibition will offer visitors a range of perspectives on the Revolution’s ideals and contradictions, its anxiety and violence, and its achievements and tragedies.

More Info/Hours

HISTORY LINKS WE LIKE

Historical Society of Princeton - https://princetonhistory.org/

Old Barracks Museum - https://revolutionarynj.org/sites/old-barracks/

Princeton Battlefield Society - https://pbs1777.org/

Princeton Battlefield State Park - https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/princetonbattlefieldstatepark.html

Rockingham Historic Site - https://www.rockingham.net/

Trent House Museum - https://www.williamtrenthouse.org/

Washington Crossing Historic Park - https://www.washingtoncrossingpark.org/