Revolutionary Harvest Festival – NY

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.

Schedule:

12:00 PM

Welcome & Opening Remarks

12:15 PM

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.

1:00 PM

“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.

2:00 PM

Historical Interviews: TBA

2:45 PM

English Country Dancing with Carla and Keyes. If you can walk, you can dance!

3:45 PM

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.

4:30 PM

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!

5:00 PM

Festival closes. See you in 2026 for the 250th!