Once Upon a Nation

Historical Reenactments

historic philadelphia reenactments

Meet some of your favorite characters from the Once Upon A Nation stories come to life and hear their first-hand account…second to none. Pick up a Historic Philadelphia Gazette to discover the daily schedule. All free programs run May 28 – September 5 (unless otherwise noted.)


Betsy Ross House

Located at 239 Arch Street.


  • Flag Raising: 10am, Betsy Ross House, with Betsy and friends
  • More daily: 12:30pm-2:30pm

Independence Visitor Center

Located at 6th & Market Streets.


  • Rally Round the Flag: 11am - 12pm, Independence Mall outside the Independence Visitor Center, photo opportunity with History Makers in costume
  • We The People: 12pm and 12:10pm, Independence Mall outside the Independence Visitor Center, dramatic reading
  • Declaration Reading: 3:45pm, behind Independence Hall, greet the History Makers and hear moving readings from the Declaration of Independence.
  • More daily: 11am-3pm

Free Quaker Meeting House

Free Quakers from Revolutionary War, Timothy Matlack or Samuel Wetherill, or 19th-century descendent John Price Wetherill, share their controversial views in a historic house of worship.

Located at 5th & Arch Streets.

  • February 3 – May 28: 11 am - 4 pm, Wednesdays - Sundays
  • May 28 – September 5: 11 am - 4 pm, daily
  • September 7 – December 31: 11 am - 4 pm, Wednesdays - Sundays
  • CLOSED: January

Military Muster

The fife and drum are a sure sign: the Continental Army is looking for a few good kids, for drills in the art of marching and musket etiquette.

Located at Signers’ Garden, 5th & Chestnut Streets.

  • Twice Daily: 2pm and 3 pm