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Patriots Week is a celebration of Trenton's revolutionary role in America's history! Enjoy a colonial ball, battle reenactments, puppet shows, and much more!
When are the battle reenactments? This year the battles are on December 28, 2024. The first battle reenactment starts at 11 am at the Battle of Trenton Monument. The second battle reenactment starts at 3 pm in Mill Hill Park.The Reenactments are always the Saturday following Christmas. When Christmas falls on a Saturday, the Reenactments take place on Sunday the 26th.
Why are there two battle reenactments? There are two Battles of Trenton that ultimately shaped the destiny of the American Revolution and our nation! The first Battle of Trenton took place on December 26, 1776 following the crossing of the Delaware. The Second Battle of Trenton (sometimes called the Battle of the Assunpink) took place on January 2, 1777. The morning reenactment is the Battle of Trenton; the afternoon reenactment is the Second Battle of Trenton.
Where do the reenactments take place? Both battles are reenacted on the original battlefields!The first reenactment starts at the Battle of Trenton Monument and follows Warren Street south to Mill Hill Park. The battle is reenacted in the streets and spectators follow along safely on the sidewalks.The second Battle of Trenton takes place in Mill Hill Park, along the Assunpink Creek.
How much does it cost to see the Battle Reenactments? The Battle Reenactments are free to attend! Admission to the Old Barracks Museum is reduced to $5 for all-day re-entry. Children 5 and under, active duty military, and Old Barracks Association members are free.
Where do I park? Information about parking in Trenton is available on the Trenton Downtown Association's website.
What happens if it snows?The battles are still reenacted! Just like the real Battle of Trenton, the reenactments happen in all kinds of weather, whether it's 6" of snow or 55 degrees!
What else is happening that day? The battle reenactments are just two events on a busy day of an exciting week! The Old Barracks Museum hosts "The Trouble With Trenton" interactive puppet shows at 12 pm and 2 pm at Warren Street Plaza. The museum is open from 10 am - 5 pm to explore, a musket demo takes place at 1 pm, and there are lots of exciting reenactor experiences happening all day.There are always other events happening throughout Trenton as well. Be sure to visit the Patriots Week website for a full schedule of the week!
Can I join the Battle? Only registered reenactor regiments can participate in the Battle of Trenton Reenactments. If you're interested in reenacting, you can look up the various groups and contact each individually.
Where do I see Washington cross the Delaware? The Crossing of the Delaware is reenacted by Washington Crossing Historic Park. Information about their events, including, the Crossing Reenactment, is available on their website.