Pay tribute to America’s first president and mark the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution at Historic New Bridge Landing in River Edge, New Jersey, where the spirit of the 18th century comes alive with re-enactors, food, music, and more.
Hosted by the Bergen County Historical Society, “Washington’s Birthday Celebration” takes place on Sunday, Feb. 22, from 1– 4:30 p.m. at Historic New Bridge Landing.
The event has something for everyone and is perfect for families with elementary- and middle-school–age children, as well as adults who enjoy history, food, and live entertainment. Visitors will encounter re-enactors from the 3rd New Jersey Regiment, who will demonstrate military life during the American Revolution and engage with guests of all ages.
Live Music and Dance, War Artifacts
Under the direction of dance mistress Denise Piccino, the Tricorne Dance Ensemble will perform an hour-long program celebrating General Washington through song and dance. The shows take place at the state historic 1752 Steuben House at 1:30 and 3 p.m. Musical accompaniment will be provided by Ridley and Anne Enslow on the fiddle and hammered dulcimer. Space is limited for each performance.
Inside the historic 1752 Steuben House, guests can explore Revolutionary War artifacts and selections from the Society’s Washington Collection, offering a close-up look at objects connected to Washington and the era.
Food During War, Washington-Themed Scavenger Hunt
The Jersey Dutch out-kitchen program will be “What Washington Ate – the War Years.” Interpreters will discuss military foodways while preparing pork roasted over the fire, root vegetable soup, and cider, a beverage popular in the 18th century.
There will also be a Washington-themed scavenger hunt with prizes and the BCHS QR Code History Challenge, a self-guided, smartphone-based experience that encourages visitors to explore the grounds through short videos and interactive questions.
Before You Go
The BCHS gift shop will be open throughout the event, and seasonal refreshments will be available for purchase inside the tavern at the Campbell Christie House.
Admission is $12 for adults and $7.50 for children. BCHS members are admitted free. Advance ticket reservations are encouraged.
Historic New Bridge Landing is located at 1201 Main Street, River Edge, NJ. Free parking is available on site, or visitors may take NJ Transit’s Pascack Valley Line to the New Bridge Landing station.
Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds but not permitted inside the historic buildings.
This event is subject to change. For more information and tickets, visit www.bergencountyhistory.org
About George Washington
George Washington was born on Feb. 22, 1732, in Popes Creek, Virginia. He died at the age of 67 on Dec. 14, 1799, in Mount Vernon, Virginia, of a severe throat infection, likely acute epiglottitis, according to reports.
George married Martha Dandridge Custis on Jan. 6, 1759. She was widowed in July 1757 when her husband, Daniel Custis, died suddenly. Martha had four children by him in 8 years, but only two, Patsy and John, survived past infancy. Patsy died of epilepsy at 16, and John died at 28 of malaria. When John died, he left 2 grandchildren behind for his George and Martha to raise.
Martha Washington was the first First Lady of the United States and spent about half of the Revolutionary War at the front with General Washington. She helped manage and run her husbands’ estates and raised her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Unanimously elected twice, President Washington established many crucial precedents and confronted many domestic and foreign policy challenges.