Step Back in Time at Berkley Celebrates America’s 250th!
Experience history coming to life on the Berkley Common during Berkley Celebrates America’s 250th on Sunday, June 28, 2026! Our Revolutionary War-era re-enactors, artisans, and living historians will transport visitors back to the 18th century with interactive demonstrations, historic characters, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Explore a Revolutionary War Experience
Walk through a living history camp hosted by the 13th Regiment and discover what life was like during the American Revolution. Visitors will experience:
- Historic military camps and equipment
- Revolutionary War muskets and demonstrations
- Authentic 18th century documents and artifacts
- Colonial cooking demonstrations over an open campfire
- Interactive educational activities for children and families
Meet Historical Figures
Keep an eye out for some very special guests wandering the Common! Visitors will have opportunities to interact with:
- George and Martha Washington
- John Adams or Paul Revere
- Additional colonial-era historical interpreters in authentic attire
These talented re-enactors don’t just pose for photos — they engage with guests, answer questions, and help bring the stories of America’s founding to life.
Watch Skilled Colonial Craftsmen at Work
Throughout the day, guests can watch live demonstrations from talented artisans showcasing traditional colonial trades, including:
- Blacksmithing
- Tinsmithing
- Musket ball making
- Historic artifact displays
- Colonial craftsmanship demonstrations
Hands-On Family Activities
Children and adults alike will have opportunities to try activities inspired by colonial America, including:
- Quill pen writing
- Powder cartridge making demonstrations
- Interactive learning stations
- Revolutionary-era games and educational experiences
A Full Day of History, Community, and Celebration
Whether you are a history enthusiast, bringing the kids for an educational adventure, or simply looking for a unique and memorable day in Berkley, the re-enactor village will be one of the highlights of the celebration.
Come hear the sounds of muskets firing, smell campfire cooking, meet America’s founding figures, and experience the spirit of 1776 right here on the Berkley Common.
Join us as Berkley celebrates America’s 250th anniversary in a way you won’t forget!
Check out just some of our Re-enactors below!
Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) & Sons of the American Revolution (SAR)
As part of Berkley Celebrates America’s 250th, we are honored to welcome representatives from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR).
The Sons of the American Revolution is dedicated to honoring Revolutionary War patriot ancestors, promoting patriotism, serving communities, and educating future generations about the founding principles of our nation. The organization includes more than 37,000 members across the United States and internationally, all committed to preserving and sharing the history of America’s founding.
SAR members have also answered their country’s call in every major American conflict beginning with the battle of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775, and continuing to the present day, including Operation Desert Storm, Bosnia, and the recent actions in Afghanistan, Iraq and Iran. SAR members have received the highest awards America can bestow, including the Medal of Honor.
- Remembering Our Past….By honoring those who served or assisted the colonies during the Revolutionary War.
- Promoting Core Values….By protecting our Constitution and perpetuating American ideals and traditions.
- Shaping Young Minds….By educating our youth about the Constitution and those who developed the American ideals and traditions.
Representatives from the Robert Treat Paine Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, supported by the Massachusetts Society Sons of the American Revolution Henry Knox Regimental Color Guard, will be on-site throughout the day. Visitors can enjoy historical displays, learn about Revolutionary War patriots, participate in youth educational activities, and speak with members about genealogy and the organization’s mission.
The Henry Knox Regimental Color Guard will also present period colors and conduct musket firing demonstrations, youth education activities and provide opportunities for those interested in joining SAR as part of the day’s living history experience.
Be sure to stop by their exhibit to learn more about the men and women who helped shape our nation’s history and the organizations that continue to preserve their legacy 250 years later.