Princeton NJ Historical Sites Announcements

Princeton 250th Celebration Events

February 16, 2026

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  Feel free to scroll to the bottom of the page for a list of resources regarding local historical references.

 

June 28, 2026 - America250 Walking Tour, Historical Society of Princeton, 2pm

What happened in Princeton during the Revolution? Visit locations occupied or ransacked by the British in 1776; homes of signers of the Declaration and members of the Continental Congress; taverns, where Patriots and Loyalists mingled, debated, and plotted; and a site where the Battle of Princeton was fought. Tour starts at the Princeton Battle Monument, 1 Monument Drive Princeton. Tickets are $25 per person. Available dates: June 28 and July 5 at 2:00 pm.

Click here for more information

 

June 30, 2026 - Tyrants and Rogues: Understanding the Declaration of Independence - Revolution Up Close: A Public Lecture Series, 7-8pm

Princeton University - Robertson Hall 100 (Arthur Lewis Auditorium)

From an acclaimed historian, a revelatory account of the Declaration of Independence, centered not on the lofty preamble but on the specific grievances that make up the bulk of the document and that offer an entirely new view into the Revolutionary era. We think of the Declaration of Independence as timeless. We know the sacred phrases: “all men are created equal,” “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” “self-evident truths,” “certain inalienable rights.” These are some of the most important words human beings have ever written. And they are all from the Declaration’s preamble, which has inspired people for centuries, including generations of revolutionaries all over the world.

Click here for more information

 

July 2, 2026 - America250: Family Recipe Swap & Tasting, Ewing Branch, 1pm.

61 Scotch Road Ewing, NJ 08628  609-882-3148 - Celebrate America250 by bringing in a family recipe to share. Bring your dish & recipe, share its history, and sample others! Join us afterwards for a screening of the musical Hamilton. For adults. Sponsored by the Friends of the Ewing Library. Registration is required.

Click here for more information

 

July 2 & 3, 2026 - The Crossing, Passage Theatre, Trenton, July 2 - 7pm, July 3 - 3pm

The Crossing is a sweeping new American musical reimagining George Washington’s Crossing of the Delaware through the diverse, often overlooked voices of the Continental Army. This special workshop presentation, ahead of its Patriots Theatre debut in December 2026, offers audiences a rare seat at the table—an insider’s look at the creation of a work already being hailed as the “Les Misérables of America.” Tickets: $35. Mill Hill Playhouse, 205 E Front St, Trenton, NJ 08611Tickets start at $35. https://www.tickettailor.com/events/tencrucialdaysorg/2244456

 

July 3, 2026 - Remember George Washington's March to Trenton, 12-3pm.

The West Trenton Garden Club Invites you to... Remember George Washington's March to Trenton – Birmingham Park – Corner of Bear Tavern Road & W. Upper Ferry Road. Step back in time at Birmingham Park! Experience a key moment in Revolutionary War history! A reenactor will describe how Washington’s troops divided at Birmingham Park on their march to Trenton in 1776. Guests can enjoy our patriotic flag display and sample light refreshments.

Click here for more information

 

July 3, 2026 - America Celebrates 250th Celebration Kickoff, 1-9:30pm

On Friday, July 3rd, experience 10 different performances and educational events on platform stages from both sides of the Delaware River. Actors portraying patriots from the Revolution will be discussing their role in the country's founding in addition to music and dance performances throughout the day. The evening ends with a spectacular fireworks display from two launch boats that will be complemented with 200 drones over the river with synced music through stadium speakers.

Click here for more information

 

July 3, 2026 - 1776 Movie Screening at the Winery, Unionville Vineyards, 6:30pm.

Kick off your Independence Day weekend by remembering where it all began. Join us on July 3rd for a special screening of 1776, the beloved musical that brings the founding of America to life. Doors open at 6:30PM and the movie begins at 7:00PM in our Barrel Building. Your ticket includes one glass of wine, one personal pizza from Antimo's Italian Kitchen, and a seat for the screening.

Click here for more information

 

July 4, 2026 - 44th Annual Revolutionary Run (RevRun), 8am.

Welcome to the 44th Annual Revolutionary Run (RevRun), a beloved Independence Day tradition held in Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania. Taking place on Saturday, July 4, the Revolutionary Run is a rain or shine community race that brings together runners, families, and spectators from across the region. 

The RevRun is more than a race - it is a celebration of history, fitness, and community spirit in one of America’s most iconic locations. Participants experience a scenic and historic course near Washington Crossing Historic Park, making this one of the most unique July 4th road races in Pennsylvania.  By joining the RevRun, you are directly supporting the local community. All event proceeds benefit the Upper Makefield Emergency Fund, UMBA Scholarships, the local Fire Department, and the Washington Crossing Historic Park. Your participation helps fund emergency assistance, education, public safety, and historic preservation.  Whether you are a competitive runner, a casual jogger, or a supporter cheering from the sidelines, the RevRun offers an unforgettable way to start your Fourth of July while giving back to the community. Register today and be part of a 44-year tradition that runs for a cause.

Click here for more information

 

July 4, 2026 - Grand Reopening Celebration, Old Barracks Museum, 10am.

Join the Old Barracks Museum as we celebrate July 4th and America’s 250th anniversary with our grand reopening. We are excited to welcome guests back to the museum and unveil the results of our year-long restoration. The official opening will be at 10:00 AM when we welcome local officials to help us swing open the gates. Visitors are invited to a preview of three new exhibits that highlight the site’s, as well as New Jersey’s, vital role in American history. We will also be displaying for the first time in decades George Washington’s Inaugural Flower Arch, the original historic arch that he passed under during his inaugural march through Trenton. The celebration will include a recreation of the arch, covered with hand-dyed wood flowers, each representing a donor. A group photo will be taken with the donors at 11:00 PM. The vocal duo “Liberty Tree” (Stacy Roth and Bob Dupre) will sing “Welcome Mighty Chief,” an ode written by Major Richard Howell to the tune of Handel’s “See the Conquering Hero Comes,” at 10:30 AM. Join us for a day filled with living history, celebration, and community as we honor our heritage and look to the future!

Click here for more information

 

July 4, 2026 - Jubilee at Morven - 12-3pm.

It’s the 250th anniversary of the Fourth of July! Come celebrate community, reflect on America’s past, and envision what’s next - all at the home of a signer of the Declaration of Independence and New Jersey’s first Governor’s mansion. Morven’s annual Fourth of July Festival is free and open to the public, featuring activities and artmaking with community partners; garden tours; music; food; a chance to sign the Declaration of Independence; and more.

Click here for more information

 

July 4, 2026 - Independence Day Celebration @Washington Crossing Historic Park

Join us at Washington Crossing Historic Park on Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 4 PM – 9:30 PM for an evening of history, community celebration, live music, and fireworks over the Delaware River as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding!

Please note: Admission is required; registration is recommended only for the 4–8 PM Living History Program. The evening concert and fireworks are free and open to the public; no registration is required to attend those portions of the event.

Step into Revolutionary America as you explore a military encampment, watch living historians demonstrate traditional crafts, participate in children’s activities and experience musket and artillery firing demonstrations. Readings of the Declaration of Independence will take place throughout the evening. As the living history program concludes, visitors are invited to enjoy live music along the waterfront, including a special fife and drum performance. The celebration will conclude with a festive fireworks display over the Delaware River (weather permitting).

Food trucks will be on site throughout the evening, offering food, snacks, and refreshments. The Friends of Washington Crossing Park will operate a concession stand serving hot dogs, chips, and beverages. All proceeds support educational programming at the park.

Click here for more information

 

July 5, 2026 - America250 Walking Tour, Historical Society of Princeton, 2pm

What happened in Princeton during the Revolution? Visit locations occupied or ransacked by the British in 1776; homes of signers of the Declaration and members of the Continental Congress; taverns, where Patriots and Loyalists mingled, debated, and plotted; and a site where the Battle of Princeton was fought. Tour starts at the Princeton Battle Monument, 1 Monument Drive Princeton. Tickets are $25 per person. Available dates: June 28 and July 5 at 2:00 pm.

Click here for more information

 

July 8, 2026 - Trenton Heritage Week - 250th Annual Proclamation of the Declaration of Independence, 12-7pm

250th Annual Proclamation of the Declaration of Independence will take place at noon -- the same site and time as the very first reading of the Declaration outside of Philadelphia in 1776. A second reading at 6 pm will coincide with readings taking place in every state and territory of the U.S., and will be followed by a free concert by the 55 musicians of the Blawenburg Band, including a composition entitled "The Battle of Trenton," composed by James Hewitt in 1792 and dedicated to George Washington.

12 Noon: Official reading at 23 South Warren Street, Trenton, NJ, 1 PM: History Fest250 – on Warren Street, 3 PM: Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Trenton,

6 PM: International Proclamation of the Declaration of Independence, 6:30 PM: Blawenburg Band Colonial Concert

Click here for more information

 

July 8, 2026 - Summer Reading Soirée, "A Founding Mother: A Novel of Abigail Adams", Morven Museum & Garden, 6:30pm

The authors discuss and sign copies of "A Founding Mother: A Novel of Abigail Adams" at this annual gathering featuring refreshments, giveaways and more. Tickets are $20; proceeds benefit the library. A popular library tradition since 2016, the annual Summer Reading Soirée features sparkling beverages, sorbet, sweet treats, as well as door prizes and giveaways. Attendees have the opportunity to mingle with library staff and fellow book lovers, share favorite recent reads and discover new titles to add to their summer reading lists. The soirée also offers a chance to stroll through the beautiful grounds of Morven Museum & Garden. Tickets for this special event, held on the grounds of Morven Museum & Garden, are $20 and include a copy of "A Founding Mother." Tickets are limited to 125 attendees.

Click here for more information

 

July 9, 2026 - Poetry Circle: America 250 Poetry Reading and Discussion, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 6:30-8pm.

2751 Brunswick Pike Lawrenceville, NJ 08648  609-883-8292

Join us for a special Poetry Reading and discussion as we explore the many voices that shape our nation. We'll share poems such as Walt Whitman's "I Hear America Singing," Langston Hughes's "I, Too," Maya Angelou's "America," Philip Freneau's "The American Soldier," Stephen Dunn's "The Sacred," and Gregory Djanikian's "Immigrant Picnic." We will also honor our Poetry Circle presenters, who have led discussions for over a decade, at this special occasion. Librarian Sharon will lead this session.Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is requested.

Click here for more information

 

July 11, 2026 - Unearthing History, One Page at a Time: Revolutionary War Pension Files, 10-11:30am.

Hopewell Branch 245 Pennington-Titusville Road Pennington, NJ 08534  609-737-2610

Through a collaboration between the National Archives and the National Park Service, this archive contains valuable details about Revolutionary War veterans and their families. You may find copies of marriage or other family records, information pertaining to military activities or details about soldiers' lives, along with letters, diaries, or family trees. Participants are encouraged to bring a laptop; a limited number are available on site. Registration is requested.

 

July 12, 2026 - Revolution Sundays - Princeton Battlefield Tour, Princeton Battlefield Society, 1pm.

Revolutionary Sundays offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Princeton, and the people whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution. In celebration of the Nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society is pleased to offer a series of themed interpretive programs from May through October. These programs feature knowledgeable Historical Interpreters who bring both military and social history to life. Join us and become part of the American Revolution — register today for Revolutionary Sundays!

More Info/Schedule

 

July 16, 2026 - Summer Jazz Concert: Ambiance Duo with Dennis Ionata, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 7pm.

2751 Brunswick Pike Lawrenceville, NJ 08648  609-883-8292

Celebrate Independence Day and America's 250th Anniversary with a patriotic, relaxing evening of jazz. Enjoy the warm, swinging sound of Ambiance Duo—Bob Smith (clarinet) and Debbie Smith (bass), performing together for over forty-five years—joined by trumpeter Dennis Ionata. The program features beloved American classics including: God Bless America, America the Beautiful, and The Star Spangled Banner, along with jazz favorites like When You're Smiling, All of Me, and Blue Skies. Sit back and enjoy timeless melodies and all American jazz. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is requested.

 

July 19, 2026 - When The Declaration of Independence Was News, Morven Museum & Garden, 2-3:30pm.

Join us for the next program in the Generation Declaration series, “When the Declaration of Independence Was News,” with Historian of the Declaration of Independence Emily Sneff.

When the Declaration of Independence Was News focuses on the nation’s founding document at the moment of its creation in 1776, before anyone knew what the legacy of the Declaration would be or if the United States would win the war against Great Britain. It explores how the Declaration was communicated to people in the new nation and around the Atlantic world and reveals the stories of the many people involved in the process of declaring independence, from printers to soldiers to diplomats to translators. This program will be offered in a hybrid format, offering both in-person and virtual tickets.

Click here for more information

 

 

July 21, 2026 - George Washington's Ten Crucial Days, 6:30 – 8:00pm

Hickory Corner Branch 138 Hickory Corner Road East Windsor, NJ 08520 609-448-1330

Drawing from his book Winning the Ten Crucial Days, historian David Price explores the decisive 1776-1777 winter campaign, revealing how leadership, geography, weather, and artillery converged to secure General George Washington's victory and alter the course of the Revolutionary War. Registration is requested.

 

 

July 26, 2026 - Revolution Sundays - Princeton Battlefield Tour, Princeton Battlefield Society, 1pm.

Revolutionary Sundays offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Princeton, and the people whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution. In celebration of the Nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society is pleased to offer a series of themed interpretive programs from May through October. These programs feature knowledgeable Historical Interpreters who bring both military and social history to life. Join us and become part of the American Revolution — register today for Revolutionary Sundays!

More Info/Schedule

 

July 30, 2026 - Listening to the Revolution: 250 Years of American Music, Morven Museum & Garden, 6pm.

Grab a blanket, some lawn chairs and the whole family for a musical evening marking the 250th anniversary of the United States at the home of a signer of the Declaration of Independence and New Jersey’s first Governor’s Mansion. The Blawenburg Band will conclude their tour of performances called “Listening to the Revolution: 250 Years of American Music” with a free concert on Morven’s front lawn. We hope to see you there! The event is free to attend. Please pre-register to let us know that you’re coming. The weather date is Friday, July 31.

Click here for more information

 

July 31, 2026 - Book Talk with Brooke Barbier: A Revolutionary Take on Cocktails & History, 5pm.

Step back in time to the candlelit taverns of 1776 and the years before as public historian Brooke Barbier examines the surprising role that alcohol played in shaping the nation! In her latest book, Cocked and Boozy: An Intoxicated History of the American Revolution, Barbier uncovers how a good pour influenced politics, relationships and the colonial economy. Pairing great stories with great libations, each chapter concludes with an eighteenth-century cocktail recipe, so thirsty readers can sip along. Join us at the Nassau Inn for an evening of unexpected history, storytelling and spirited sips!

Click here for more information

 

August 2, 2026 - Revolution Sundays - Princeton Battlefield Tour, Princeton Battlefield Society, 1pm.

Revolutionary Sundays offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Princeton, and the people whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution. In celebration of the Nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society is pleased to offer a series of themed interpretive programs from May through October. These programs feature knowledgeable Historical Interpreters who bring both military and social history to life. Join us and become part of the American Revolution — register today for Revolutionary Sundays!

More Info/Schedule

 

August 16, 2026 - Revolution Sundays - Princeton Battlefield Tour, Princeton Battlefield Society, 1pm.

Revolutionary Sundays offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Princeton, and the people whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution. In celebration of the Nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society is pleased to offer a series of themed interpretive programs from May through October. These programs feature knowledgeable Historical Interpreters who bring both military and social history to life. Join us and become part of the American Revolution — register today for Revolutionary Sundays!

More Info/Schedule

 

September 6, 2026 - Revolution Sundays - Princeton Battlefield Tour, Princeton Battlefield Society, 1pm.

Revolutionary Sundays offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Princeton, and the people whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution. In celebration of the Nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society is pleased to offer a series of themed interpretive programs from May through October. These programs feature knowledgeable Historical Interpreters who bring both military and social history to life. Join us and become part of the American Revolution — register today for Revolutionary Sundays!

More Info/Schedule

 

September 10, 2026 - Princeton and the American Revolution: A Four-Part Series, HSP

Updike Farmstead, 354 Quaker Road

When: Thursdays, September 10, 17, 24, and October 1 Time: 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm (one hour talk with Q & A)

Dive into the 250th anniversary with this comprehensive program highlighting several Revolutionary War events, culminating in the Battle of Princeton. Discussions will include the largest battle of the war, the Battle of Brooklyn, and its local implications; the “Ten Crucial Days;” and the summer of 1783, when Princeton served as the nation’s capital.  Click here for more information

 

September 13, 2026 - Revolution Sundays - Princeton Battlefield Tour, Princeton Battlefield Society, 1pm.

Revolutionary Sundays offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Princeton, and the people whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution. In celebration of the Nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society is pleased to offer a series of themed interpretive programs from May through October. These programs feature knowledgeable Historical Interpreters who bring both military and social history to life. Join us and become part of the American Revolution — register today for Revolutionary Sundays!

More Info/Schedule

 

September 27, 2026 - Revolution Sundays - Princeton Battlefield Tour, Princeton Battlefield Society, 1pm.

Revolutionary Sundays offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Princeton, and the people whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution. In celebration of the Nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society is pleased to offer a series of themed interpretive programs from May through October. These programs feature knowledgeable Historical Interpreters who bring both military and social history to life. Join us and become part of the American Revolution — register today for Revolutionary Sundays!

More Info/Schedule

 

October 3, 2026  - Princeton 1776 Fest - Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street

Rain Date - October 4

This free community celebration — 250 years in the making — will include live music, living history interpreters and craftspeople, special exhibitions, and food and drink. Co-sponsored by HSP, Morven, Princeton Battlefield Society, and Daughters of the American Revolution. Click here for more information

 

October 11, 2026 - Revolution Sundays - Princeton Battlefield Tour, Princeton Battlefield Society, 1pm.

Revolutionary Sundays offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Princeton, and the people whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution. In celebration of the Nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society is pleased to offer a series of themed interpretive programs from May through October. These programs feature knowledgeable Historical Interpreters who bring both military and social history to life. Join us and become part of the American Revolution — register today for Revolutionary Sundays!

More Info/Schedule

 

October 18, 2026 - Revolution Sundays - Princeton Battlefield Tour, Princeton Battlefield Society, 1pm.

Revolutionary Sundays offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Ten Crucial Days, the Battle of Princeton, and the people whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution. In celebration of the Nation’s 250th Anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society is pleased to offer a series of themed interpretive programs from May through October. These programs feature knowledgeable Historical Interpreters who bring both military and social history to life. Join us and become part of the American Revolution — register today for Revolutionary Sundays!

More Info/Schedule

 

 

HISTORY LINKS WE LIKE

 

David Center for the American Revolution - https://www.amphilsoc.org/david-center-american-revolution

Historic Germantown - https://historicgermantownpa.org/2026-events-and-experiences/

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

Mercer 250 - https://250.mercercountynj.gov/

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

Revolution NJ - https://www.revnj.org/

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

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

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