Will General Washington Be Able To Make His "Christmas Crossing?"

WASHINGTON CROSSING, PA — Don't tell the Hessians, but it appears George Washington and his troops will be making "The Crossing" on Christmas Day.

After being left high and dry earlier this month due to drought conditions, the stage is set for a second attempt by the eager Revolutionaries on December 25th.

On Thursday morning, the Friends of Washington Crossing took a test run with a Durham Boat to check river conditions in preparation for next week's crossing.

"The boats are in (the water) and as of now we are planning to cross! The water levels look good from now until the 25th," reports Jennifer Martin, the executive director of the Friends of Washington Crossing.

The Friends of Washington Crossing Park launched one of its Durham Boats on Thursday in a test run for next week. (Friends of Washington Crossing Park)

The 72nd annual Christmas Day Crossing is scheduled to take place from 12 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 25 with the actual crossing scheduled for 1 p.m. Admission to the event is free and open to the public.

The crossing on Christmas night in 1776 marked a pivotal moment in the American Revolution. Each year, thousands gather to relive the event, featuring hundreds of reenactors in full Continental Army uniform. Visitors of all ages will be captivated as they hear General Washington deliver an inspiring speech and watch the soldiers row across the river in replica Durham boats.

Financial Challenge: Help George Cross The River

In addition to preparing for the Christmas Day crossing, Martin said the Friends are making one final push to meet a financial challenge from the Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund.

"We are currently just $12,000 away from reaching our $50,000 fundraising goal, which will be matched (dollar for dollar up to $50,000) by the Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund and the Friends of Washington Crossing Park Board of Directors," said Martin.

According to Martin, the Friends have raised $38,000 to date, including $19,000 from the First Crossing event to pay for the re-enactments.

"Thanks to the generous response from our supporters, we've now raised $38,000 - a significant increase over last year, which will go a long way towards preparing us for America's 250th anniversary in 2026," said Martin.

"As water levels continue to rise, we are feeling confident that we will be able to complete the historic river crossing on Christmas Day," said Martin. "Your continued investment helps ensure we can bring this important reenactment to life. Thank you again to everyone who helped make this event possible and who has contributed. With your support, we're looking forward to another exciting year in 2025."

To make a donation in support of the re-enactment and to help meet the Epstein Challenge, click here.

George Washington crosses a foggy Delaware River during the 2023 re-enactment. (Jeff Werner/Patch)

The troops stand ready during the 2023 re-enactment. (Jeff Werner/Patch)

George Washington leads his troops along the banks of the Delaware River. (Jeff Werner/Patch)