Grand Reception Marks Gen. Washington's 294th Birthday In Bucks Co.

A large crowd turned out on Sunday to celebrate General Washington's Birthday at Washington Crossing Historic Park.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A large crowd gathered at Washington Crossing Historic Park in Upper Makefield, Pennsylvania on Sunday to celebrate General George Washington's 294th birthday. The event featured a birthday cake cutting by Washington, who was portrayed by actor John Godzieba, as well as music from the park's Fifes and Drums, complimentary cupcakes, and various living history activities for visitors.

Why it matters

The annual birthday celebration at Washington Crossing Historic Park is a longstanding tradition that honors the legacy of one of America's most revered founding fathers. The event draws a large crowd and provides an opportunity for the local community to engage with history through interactive demonstrations and festivities.

The details

During the event, General Washington, portrayed by actor John Godzieba, used a three-foot-long sword to slice through a red, white, and blue birthday cake provided by the Caketeria in Newtown. The audience cheered on the general as he shared his 294th birthday with the public and thanked the numerous children who had made him handmade birthday cards. After cutting the cake, Washington invited everyone to join him for complimentary cupcakes donated by NJM Insurance Group.

  • The birthday party was held on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • As Washington walked onto the stage, the park's Fifes and Drums played the "Coronation March," which was played in his honor as he marched through Trenton on his way to New York to become President of the United States in 1789.

The players

General George Washington

The first President of the United States, who was celebrated at the event through a historical reenactment by actor John Godzieba.

John Godzieba

The actor who portrayed General George Washington at the event.

Washington Crossing Historic Park

The park where the birthday celebration took place, located in Upper Makefield, Pennsylvania.

The Caketeria

The bakery that provided the red, white, and blue birthday cake for the event.

NJM Insurance Group

The company that donated the complimentary cupcakes for the event.

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What they’re saying

“This brings a tear to my heart to see so many people actually remember my birthday - I've had so many.”

— General George Washington (Patch)

“Thank you for taking time out of your day to celebrate with me and my soldiers.”

— General George Washington (Patch)

“This is one of those celebrations at Washington Crossing Historic Park that's amazing. The crowd, the excitement, the fife and drum music and just the enjoyment of everybody here. And the immense amount of birthday cards that I received. It's so wonderful to see the patriotism. This is a fantastic day.”

— John Godzieba, Actor portraying General George Washington (Patch)

What’s next

Visitors can look forward to upcoming events at Washington Crossing Historic Park, including Wheat and Sheep Day on April 25, a Memorial Day observation on May 24, Living History Day on July 4, and the Rebels and Redcoats Classic Car Show on July 12.

The takeaway

The annual birthday celebration at Washington Crossing Historic Park is a cherished tradition that allows the local community to come together and honor the legacy of one of America's most revered founding fathers through interactive living history demonstrations and festivities.