Memorial Day

Join the Museum for Memorial Day Weekend to honor the men and women who lost their lives in service to their country during the Revolutionary War and celebrate the freedoms they fought to secure for future generations. Veterans and active-duty military members enjoy free admission throughout Memorial Day Weekend, courtesy of Comcast NBCUniversal. The Declaration's Journey Daily | Patriots Gallery The Declaration's Journey, presented by Griffin Catalyst, explores the history and global impact of the Declaration of Independence from 1776 to today and showcases how it has become one of the most influential political documents in modern history. 10-Minute Talk: Objects of Reflection Daily, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. | Patriots Gallery What did the Declaration of Independence mean in 1776 and in 1963? Join an educator to learn more about two objects in the special exhibition The Declaration's Journey. 10-Minute Talk: Hugh Mercer's Sword Daily, 12:30 p.m. | Trenton and Princeton Enjoy a 10-minute pop-up talk to learn about a sword belonging to General Hugh Mercer, who was killed at the Battle of Princeton. Discover the sword's history from the battlefield to the St. Andrew's Society of Philadelphia to its current home at the Museum. Walking Tour to the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier Daily, 11 a.m. Join a Museum educator for a 30-minute free walking tour to the memorial and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington Square Park to remember those who served. Sign up for this tour at the front desk during your visit. Meet the Revolution Daniel Sieh Saturday, May 23 Living historian Daniel Sieh will join us at the Museum to explore the lives of Asians in the United States during the 18th century. Through historical documents, interactive activities, and objects, Daniel will unpack how global trade connected the lives of Asian sailors, soldiers, traders, and enslaved people, and how they navigated American society as strangers from a distant land. First-Person Performance: Meet Elizabeth Freeman May 23 and 24, 1:15 and 3:15 p.m. | Alan B. Miller Theater Watch a 30-minute first-person theatrical performance portraying the life and experiences of Elizabeth Freeman, also known as Mumbet, a Massachusetts woman who sued for her freedom from enslavement and won. The performance stars Katelyn E. Appiah-Kubi as Elizabeth Freeman and was written by Teresa Miller. Unpack a Sea Chest Daily, 2:30 p.m. | The War at Sea Join a Museum educator for stories about what life was like at sea during the Revolutionary War for the Continental Navy, privateers, and prisoners of war, and learn about the different roles needed to operate a Revolutionary-era ships. Hands-On History Discovery Cart Daily | Patriots Gallery Join a Museum educator at a discovery cart to learn more about printing in the 18th century with replica objects and reproduction documents. Discovery Cart: Soldier's Pack Daily, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Join a Museum educator at a discovery cart featuring replica handling objects to learn more about what Continental Army soldiers would carry in their knapsack, such as a fire-starting kit and a 18th-century whirligig. Revolution Place Daily Explore Revolution Place, the Museum’s family-friendly discovery center which brings to life Old City’s lively, diverse neighborhood during the 1700s and invites visitors to learn through hands-on exploration. Kids of all ages can immerse themselves in three historical environments – a military encampment, a tavern, and a parlor – to experience the places where the American Revolution took root. While you're there, create your own commemorative ribbon, like the ones Revolutionary War veterans received in 1825. Walking and Guided Tours Daily, times vary Additional ticket required Explore the Museum and its historic neighborhood with an expert guide! Choose from guided tours of our core galleries or The Declaration's Journey, or a walking tour to explore our Revolutionary neighborhood.