Reenactments and public programs across New Jersey will commemorate the American Revolution’s 250th anniversary

Reenactors headed to the Capital City on Dec. 27 to commemorate the Battle of Trenton in bitter winter conditions similar to those faced by Gen. George Washington and the Continental Army nearly 250 years ago. The falling snow, frozen breath, and sound of musket fire echoed the hardship of the campaign fought in severe weather against long odds.

The original Battle of Trenton, fought on the morning of December 26, 1776, marked a turning point in the Revolutionary War.

After General George Washington crossed the Delaware River the previous night, he led the Continental Army in a surprise attack against Hessian soldiers garrisoned in Trenton. Nearly two-thirds of the Hessian force was captured. The victory significantly boosted the Continental Army’s waning morale and inspired soldiers to re-enlist.

In the weeks leading up to the battle, the Continental Army had suffered a series of defeats in New York and was forced to retreat into Pennsylvania. Morale was low, and the future of the revolution appeared uncertain. To reverse the tide, Washington devised the bold plan to cross the Delaware River and surround the Hessian garrison.

The crossing proved dangerous. The river was choked with ice, and the weather was severe. Two detachments were unable to cross, leaving Washington with just 2,400 men—about 3,000 fewer than originally planned—to carry out the assault. The army then marched nine miles south to Trenton.

Believing they were safe from attack, the Hessians had lowered their guard and maintained no long-distance patrols. Washington’s forces caught them by surprise, and after a short but fierce battle, most of the Hessian soldiers surrendered and were captured. About one-third escaped across the Assunpink Creek.

Despite the battle’s small scale, the victory had an outsized impact. It inspired patriots at a moment when the revolution had seemed on the brink of collapse. The dramatic success convinced many soldiers that the war was not a lost cause and encouraged them and others to continue the fight.

Visitors and reenactors took part in Patriots Week events in Trenton with an eye toward 2026, when the nation will mark the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Commemorations are planned throughout the year across New Jersey, ranging from historical reenactments and museum exhibitions to lectures, performances and community events.