Revolutionary Philadelphia Living History Event to Immerse Visitors in Everyday Life in 1776, Oct. 17-18

Event to Illuminate Early Tensions of the Revolutionary War, Debates Over Loyalty or Independence, and More Through Live Interpretation and Guided Tour  

The Museum of the American Revolution’s living history interpretation event Revolutionary Philadelphia: 1776 will return on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Revolutionary Philadelphia: 1776 will offer dramatic vignettes, guided neighborhood walking tours, third-person interpretation, first-person portrayals, and family-friendly activities to immerse visitors in the lives of residents who lived in British Philadelphia.  The event is free and open to the public.

Revolutionary Philadelphia portrays the lives of people during the corresponding years of the Revolutionary War, showcasing their changes and choices over time. Set between the fall and early winter of Philadelphia in 1776, this year’s event will follow life after the adoption and signing of the Declaration of Independence, in celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary. From news of the British occupying Manhattan, to the arrival of General Thomas Mifflin in Philadelphia and troops assembling, to the Continental Congress fleeing the city for Baltimore as British forces advanced, discover how the diverse people of Philadelphia grappled with the decision to remain loyal to the king or support the Revolution amid rising tensions.

“We’re excited to bring Revolutionary Philadelphia back to the Museum during this historic year,” said Adrienne Whaley, Director of Education and Community Engagement. “Highlighting the complex decisions that everyday people faced following the adoption and signing of the Declaration of Independence, as well as the excitement and fear that they felt, allows us to connect visitors to the past in a way that humanizes these experiences.” 

Visitors can make the most of their experience by adding a 60-minute guided tour for an additional $10 with admission. Led by a Museum educator, the tour will begin in our core galleries before heading outside to interact with living history interpreters and learn what life in 1776 Philadelphia was like for everyday people.

Additionally that weekend, Tom Hand, author of An American Triumph and America Victorious, will conduct a free-with-admission book signing in the Museum’s rotunda Oct. 17 from 1–3 p.m. Both books will be available for purchase in the Museum Shop.

On Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., the Museum will participate in Halloween in the Historic District and provide a special Halloween costume contest for children ages 16 and under. Participants should sign up at the Museum’s front desk and at 3 p.m., superlatives and prizes will be given out in our family-friendly Revolution Place discovery center for lucky winners.

Activities on the outdoor plaza are free and open to the public. Tickets for the guided tours may be purchased in advance or on the day of the event. Tickets to the Museum can be purchased by calling 215.253.6731, at AmRevMuseum.org, or at the front desk. The Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets to the Museum can be purchased by calling 215.253.6731, at AmRevMuseum.org, or at the front desk. Save $2 per adult ticket by purchasing online. Kids ages five and under are always free. All tickets are valid for two consecutive days. 

About Museum of the American Revolution 
The Museum of the American Revolution uncovers and shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government. Through the Museum’s unmatched collection, immersive galleries, powerful theater experiences, and interactive elements, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for how this nation came to be and feel inspired to consider their role in ensuring that the promise of the American Revolution endures. Located just steps away from Independence Hall, the Museum serves as a portal to the region’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context, and encouraging exploration. The Museum, which opened on April 19, 2017, is an independent, non-profit, and non-partisan organization. For more information, visit www.AmRevMuseum.org or call 877.740.1776.