Step back in time to the American Revolution! This free family-friendly outdoor festival will feature costumed reenactors, living history demonstrations, and hands-on activities.
Meet military and civilian reenactors including General George Washington (on his horse Nelson), French General le Comte de Rochambeau, Revolutionary War soldiers from both sides of the conflict, 18th century crafts demonstrators, and more. Enjoy live music and try your hand at 18th century country dancing, grinding grain in a portable stone mill, operating a cider press, and playing 18th century-style children’s games. Explore the history of Philipse Manor Hall and colonial New York in the museum, and don’t miss the special traveling exhibit “Treason of the Blackest Dye: The True Story of Arnold, André, and Three Honest Militiamen.” History buffs of all ages can also enjoy our special espionage activity, as you explore the grounds and meet historical people and booths of local history organizations to decipher your mission, using our special code book!
This festival coincides with Yonkers RiverFest, which features live music, vendors, and food throughout the downtown Yonkers area.
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Historical Interviews: Generals George Washington & Comte de Rochambeau
Our host Michael Lord will interview each general on their thoughts on the war. With time for audience Q&A afterwards.
"This Man's a Spy!" with Carla and Keyes
Inspired by Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway musical Hamilton, This Man’s A Spy! offers an updated musical version of the classic Revolutionary War tale. The songs introduce other important players of the story, including Peggy Shippen, Benedict Arnold’s wife, and local Patriot militiaman, John “Rifle Jack” Peterson, a free African-American man who helped foil Major André’s escape back to the British lines. André was captured by three patriot militiamen, Isaac Van Wart, David Williams, and John Paulding in Tarrytown.
Historical Interviews: TBA
English Country Dancing with Carla and Keyes. If you can walk, you can dance!
Historical Interviews: Ann Fisher Miller & Mary Philipse Morris
Our host Michael Lord will interview Ann Fisher Miller on her experiences with the Battle of White Plains and hosting George Washington in her house, and will interview Mary Philipse on her Loyalism and how her family has been treated during the war. With time for audience Q&A afterwards.
Song Battle: "Yankee Doodle" vs. "God Save the King"
Which side are you on? This program requires audience participation! Sing along to determine which song wins the battle (hint: it's the loudest!). Music by Carla & Keyes. Vocals by you!
Festival closes. See you in 2026 for the 250th!
General George Washington and his horse Nelson, portrayed by John Koopman III and Bear.
French General le Comte de Rochambeau, portrayed by Eric Dutaud (at right, pictured here with General George Washington as portrayed by John Koopman III, at left).
Members of the Living History Company, portraying Black soldiers of the American Revolution, including the First Rhode Island Regiment, Black Loyalists, and more.
Leslie Bramlett, of the Living History Company, demonstrating the roles of camp followers and cooks of color.
Sarah Wassberg Johnson of Philipse Manor Hall, portraying Mary Philipse Morris and demonstrating the history of sugar & spices
Jim Keyes and Carla Lynne Hall performing 18th century music as Carla and Keyes
Cynthia Abbott Kauffman portraying Ann Fisher Miller, hostess to George Washington at the Battle of White Plains.
Erik Paul, demonstrating 18th century joinery and woodworking.
Celeste Sherry, demonstrating 18th century fiber arts and spinning.
Tom Hunt, demonstrating 18th century food preservation.
Chelsey Knyff of B. Historical demonstrating 18th century bobbin lace making.
Etienne Best of the Living History Company demonstrating 18th century herbal medicine.
