Usually the two weekends closest to Christmas and New Year
(609) 777-1770 Website 2018 Schedule
Gravitas: 
Proximity:
Every Christmas season, the Trenton Downtown Association sponsors a week-long celebration called “Patriot’s Week”, culminating in a day-long re-enactment of the two battles of Trenton. A reenactment of the river crossing takes place on Christmas Day (show up early, it gets crowded). Then in town, it starts the day after Christmas, culminating with the main re-enactments on Saturday (In 2018: Dec 28). You can click on the link above to download a PDF of the schedule, or check out the Patriot’s week Facebook page.
During the week, there are dozens of additional events, many free, including lectures, walking tours, and concerts.
The reenactments are a wild scene. Dozens of men dressed in authentic uniforms, carrying muzzle loading, black powder muskets (and cannon) descend on downtown Trenton. They march, they load and fire muskets (without bullets), they pretend to die.
It’s fascinating for everyone, but particularly enthralling for children.
One word of advice: don’t bring your dog. The guns are really LOUD, and it’s terrifying for animals. Young children may also find it upsetting. Adults may want earplugs.
Of course, if this stimulates your interest in the battles, our own, Nine Days that Changed the World: The Hidden Trenton Guide to the Battles of Trenton and Princeton, will tell you the story of all 3 battles and help you drive from place to place to see where they actually happened. Click on the link above to download it for free.
Thanks Hidden Trenton for this great write up on Patriots’ Week!
Manager’s Pick: Colonial Church, Sunday at 10 at First Presbyterian Church. Go to an actual church where the preacher, the sermon, the food and half of the congregation have stepped out of the 18th century. Free event!
People forget the history of Trenton. Bravo Hidden Trenton for bring the Continental Army to our attention. No Trenton, no freedom. Thank you hidden trenton.