Free Living-History Festival Featuring Battle Reenactments, Live Entertainment, a Hamilton Sing-Along, Immersive Historical Demonstrations, Children’s Activities and More
Westchester County announced details for REV FEST 250, a free, two-day outdoor festival commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, to be held Saturday to Sunday October 24 – 25 from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in Cross River, NY.
As Westchester County’s signature commemoration event, REV FEST 250 brings the American Revolution to life through the stories of patriots, loyalists, and those caught in between, offering a deeper understanding of the people, choices, and conflicts that shaped the birth of a nation. Explore authentic Continental and British Army encampments, meet over 500 volunteer living history exhibitors portraying soldiers and civilians, witness military drills, musket and artillery firing, artisan trades, and hands-on living history that reveals what life was like during the Revolution.
Enjoy live entertainment, browse exhibitors, sample local food trucks, and watch both armies assemble and march toward the weekend’s signature attraction—the Reenactment of the Battle of White Plains, a large-scale tactical demonstration featuring over 1,000 reenactors representing 75 different historical uniformed units. With more than two miles of immersive experiences spanning the scenic grounds of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, there’s something to discover around every corner. From historic camps and artisan villages to musical performances and interactive activities, REV FEST 250 offers an unforgettable weekend for families, history enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “We’re proud to welcome visitors and residents to experience the living legacy of Westchester’s pivotal role in America’s founding. This momentous event commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Battle of White Plains marking the October 28, 1776 clash between General George Washington and British/Hessian forces. REV FEST 250 is an immersive large-scale festival that’s great fun for the whole family, connecting our County’s roots to the modern day, showcasing how Westchester is a place where history lives on.”
Performance highlights include West Point’s Benny Havens Band, the Sankofa Drum and Dance Ensemble, a Hamilton Sing-Along and drum and fife music. Master Storyteller Jonathon Kruk regales the audience with Revolutionary Tales of Westchester, Drama from the Past presents Rendezvous with Treason: The André/Arnold Conspiracy, and History at Play tells the tale of the first woman to fight in the Continental Army and be honorably discharged, in “A Revolution of Her Own! Deborah Sampson”.
Director of Westchester County Tourism & Film Natasha Caputo said: “As we commemorate the 250th, we’re excited to offer new ways for travelers and locals to connect with history and explore the vast beauty of Ward Pound Ridge and Westchester as a whole. History and heritage is a significant driver of tourism to our County delivering lasting impact.”
Acting Commissioner of Westchester County Parks, Recreation and Conservation William Bland said: “REV FEST 250 is the perfect opportunity for visitors to discover Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, our largest County park, where rich history and diverse wildlife are on full display. We invite everyone to explore our vast County parklands and experience the beauty of nature in every season of the year.”
REV FEST 250 has partnered with Revolutionary Westchester 250 (RW250). RW250 strives to build awareness and excitement for the events, places, ideas and people – both the unsung and the famous – of the Revolutionary War period in Westchester County.
REV FEST 250 has also partnered with the Brigade of the American Revolution (BAR) – a national living-history organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the American Revolution. BAR’s members portray the soldiers, civilians, craftspeople, and communities of the Revolutionary era through historically researched encampments, military demonstrations, educational programming, material culture, and large-scale battle reenactments to bring the history of the Revolution to life for the public.
Dakota Griffin, National Secretary, Brigade of the American Revolution said: “We are tremendously excited to bring more than 1,000 volunteer reenactors together to commemorate the Battle of White Plains and share this history with the public. These volunteers devote countless hours to researching the people they portray, preparing their clothing and equipment, and developing demonstrations that make the past accessible. As a nonprofit dedicated to public programming and education, the Brigade’s mission is to help visitors connect with the people and experiences of the Revolutionary era. We’re proud to work alongside Westchester County, the British Brigade, and the Continental Line to create a memorable learning experience for families and visitors of all ages.”
For a seamless experience, attendees can park at one of three nearby offsite parking areas (John Jay Homestead and Katonah and Bedford Hills Train Stations) or take Metro-North Railroad to Katonah or Bedford Hills Train Stations. Free, continuous shuttle service to the event from each of these locations makes travel stress free.
MTA Metro-North Railroad President Justin Vonashek said: “Metro North makes it easy to reach the White Plains area and explore the history that helped shape our region. If you’re heading to RevFest 250, leave the car at home and enjoy a comfortable, affordable ride on our Harlem Line to Katonah, where free shuttle buses will take you directly to Ward Pound Ridge Reservation. Let us do the driving, we’ll see you on board.”
Rooted in Westchester is a dynamic digital collection of resources and itineraries designed to highlight Westchester’s historical significance, amplify diverse stories and enhance the visitor experience at historic sites across the County. Resources can be found at https://VisitWestchesterNY.com/250
Support for the 250th anniversary commemoration events is provided through a Market New York grant from Empire State Development and I LOVE NY, New York State’s Division of Tourism.
ABOUT REV FEST 250:
What: REV FEST 250 – living-history festival commemorating America’s 250th
When: Oct. 24-25, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily
Where: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Pound Ridge NY
Admission: Free; families encouraged to bring picnic blankets, leashed dogs permitted
FAQ: https://www.visitwestchesterny.com/250/revfest-2026/faq/#parking