American Revolution Reenactors Excite Westchester Families & Kids at the Two-Day REV FEST 250

REV FEST 250, a major reenactment of The Battle of White Plains brought to life by Visit Westchester County NY, took place over a two-day period from Oct 24-25 at Westchester County's largest park, the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in Pound Ridge, New York. The weekend brought smiles and wonder from Westchester families and those who traveled from across the county.

“What an incredible event," said Natasha Caputo, Director of Westchester County Tourism & Film. "We are thrilled that REV FEST 250 brought residents and visitors together against the spectacular backdrop of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation to experience our nation’s history come to life. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this historic celebration possible. From the perfect fall weather to the extraordinary performers and reenactors, every element made the experience truly memorable. It was especially rewarding to see so many young visitors engaging with our history, and hope REV FEST 250 sparked a lasting curiosity and appreciation for our nation’s history and heritage.”

1,123 reenactors who took part within the two-mile span of the 4,315-acre Reservation, met with thousands of visitors and educated the kids about life during the key period of the Revolutionary War that took place in Westchester County. One Redcoat reenactor who I spoke with from Kentucky said that although it is indeed a celebration of 250th anniversary, who cannot forget that these reenactments are a great education for our youngsters to see at first-hand what they are learning in schools and from the history books.

The overall scenery of the Ward Pound Ridge Reservation was a Woodstock '69 resemblance but without flower power and the music, and massive area blanketed with white tents where many of the reenactors camped out over a few chilly-to-mild mid autumn days. Thankfully the days were dry where rain never became an issue, only early morning frost presented itself. These mornings were met by fire burning pits where these 18th Century reenactors cooked soup and some breakfast plates outside of their inside-blanketed tents. In time for the battle, the afternoon warm sunshine made it pleasant for everyone.

During down times over lunch and within the Reservation, reenactors took time out to speak to families and kids about historical events and answered questions from those who portrayed America's famous statesmen such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.

REV FEST 250 wasn't all about the ultimate battle and the skirmishes preceding the actual battle, but also included stage shows that included both spoken-word segments and plays from reenactors who told historical fictional stories and acted them out beautifully. Mixed in tastefully, REV FEST 250 also included inspiring musical performances by Kofi and Sankofa African Drum & Dance, the West Point's Benny Havens Band and a fun Hamilton sing along where kids from the audience joined in on-stage and took part in the popular Broadway musical performance.

Down the path within the picturesque beauty of the Reservation, local vendors, exhibitors and a variety of food trucks were on hand giving out information, selling souvenirs and food for lunch and snacks. All in all, visitors at the event were thrilled about all of the entertainment that took place. People came with their entire family, including their dogs and not only from Westchester, but from anywhere and the smiles told you, it was worth it all.

REV FEST 250 may have seemed like the big closer of this historical 2026 but the county isn't finished with the 250th celebration yet. According to Ms. Caputo, there are more events and experiences celebrating America’s 250th anniversary taking place throughout Westchester County before the end of 2026.

"We encourage residents and visitors to explore our Rooted in Westchester events calendar for upcoming programs, exhibitions and historic experiences," Caputo said. "Of special note is The Declaration Distributed: Westchester County’s Holt Broadside of 1776, on view at the Neuberger Museum of Art through December 20, 2026. The exhibition explores how New York’s adoption of the Declaration of Independence was printed and circulated in 1776, highlighting a rare document preserved in the Westchester County Archives and the role it played in spreading Revolutionary ideas."