Patriots Week

In Trenton, New Jersey's Capital City provides the unique opportunity for residents and tourists to experience the events that shaped our nation during Patriots Week. The Trenton Downtown Association works closely with neighboring sites in the area to bring the most comprehensive historical experience to life for those of all ages and backgrounds. Through the immersive experience that is Patriots Week, the TDA commemorates and recognizes Trenton's unique and pivotal role in the American Revolution. A role that has shaped some of the very streets and buildings that can still be seen standing today as they were in 1776. Patriots Week is held annually from December 26 - December 31 during the week between Christmas and New Year's and attracts thousands of visitors to the city to enjoy historical tours, a pub crawl, colonial ball, lectures, films, art, music, battlefield re-enactments, and living history events. This year use your holiday break for a fun & history-filled family staycation!

With over 70 events taking place during the six-day period it's easy for families and history aficionados to spend a few days in Central New Jersey this December. 

SAVE THE DATE, visit our page in mid September for more information for this years events. WE ARE ALWAYS SHARING HISTORIAL EVENTS TAKING PLACE THROUGHOUT THE  YEAR....  Be sure to check out our Facebook pagefor news! 

Events Presented by the Old Barracks Museum

Musket Demonstrations will take place at 12 PM & 2 PM on 
​Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Monday. Included in the cost of admission.

Wednesday, December 26 at 2:30 PM "Barracks. School. Brothel. Museum. The Life of 104 West Front Street"
The Officers House of the Old Barracks survived the test of time by becoming a part of the city's landscape. Lauren Ronaghan details the history of this building, including its many uses and owners in the 19th century.

Thursday, December 27 at 1 PM "The British Army in North America 1768-1783"
A presentation by Asher Lurie of the Old Barracks Museum describing the true story of the British soldiers and officers sent to defend and maintain the thirteen American Colonies.

Friday, December 28 at 12 PM "Leveling all Distinctions:" The Philadelphia Associators and the Making of Revolution 
The Philadelphia Associators quickly became the most radical revolutionaries in the American forces during the Revolutionary War. Locked in conflict at home in Philadelphia, they were also perhaps the most heavily involved soldiers in the Battle of Princeton. Drawn from the "lower sort", they sought radical change which stretched the boundaries of what many above them thought the Revolution could - or should - accomplish. Join David Niescior of the Old Barracks Museum as he talks about the Associators and their role in setting the course and meaning of Revolution.

Friday, December 28 at 7 PM Colonial Ball at Historic Trenton Masonic Temple across the street from the Old Barracks Museum
The Colonial Ball is your chance to mingle with the soldiers of the Battle of Trenton and learn their favorite dance steps! Tickets available on December 1 - get them quick, the Ball will sell out!

​Saturday, December 29 at 11 AM Battle of Trenton Reenactment
Follow the action of the Battle of Trenton on the streets where the actual Battle took place! Meet at the Old Barracks Museum and follow the troops as they march to the Battle of Trenton Monument to begin the battle towards Mill Hill Park. Come back to the Old Barracks for more action, a musket demonstration, and to tour the original building at the discounted rate of $5 per person (all day re-entry).

​Saturday, December 29 at 12 PM & 2 PM "The Trouble With Trenton" Puppet Show at First Presbyterian Church, 120 East State Street (moved from Warren Street Plaza)
A "mini" historical look at some amazing American history presented with marionettes and rod puppets - and lots of help from the audience! The free show includes live music, large puppets and props, and plenty of "revolting" action. Presented by Tuckers Tales.

​Saturday, December 29 at 3 PMBattle of the Assunpink Reenactment
Experience the Battle of the Assunpink Creek (January 2, 1777) as it is reenacted in Mill Hill Park. Meet at the Old Barracks Museum and follow the troops as they march off to meet the British on the banks of the Assunpink Creek just three blocks away. Come back to the Old Barracks for a tour of the original building at the discounted rate of $5 per person (all day re-entry).