As the country gears up to celebrate America’s 250th birthday next year, Destination Dutchess, formerly known as Dutchess Tourism, Inc., is proud to announce a series of interactive events and experiences launching in June. Held in partnership with Dutchess County Government’s Department of History and host locations, these events honor Dutchess County’s role in the Revolutionary War and spark community excitement for the 250th commemoration continuing through 2026.
“These events will help bring our history to life by highlighting the important role our county played in securing American independence,” said Melaine Rottkamp, president and CEO of Destination Dutchess. “From family-friendly fun at RevCon to toasting freedom with a Revolutionary-themed cider celebration, we’re working to make learning about history engaging and entertaining for everyone.”
Funding to support these events and activities was provided by Dutchess County Government in the 2025 County Budget as part of the County Government’s annual support to Destination Dutchess. Additionally, the Dutchess County Legislature allocated $100,000 in grant funding for local historical societies to offer public programming to connect residents and visitors with the Dutchess County’s vibrant role in the Revolution and the subsequent 250 years of American history.
“We’re thrilled to see such enthusiasm across Dutchess County for this milestone,” said Dutchess County Legislature Chairman Will Truitt. “With continued investment by the County; Destination Dutchess, our Dutchess County History Division and local historical societies are developing compelling programming that is both meaningful and innovative. The best is yet to come as we head toward 2026!”
Dutchess County was vital to the patriot cause during the American Revolution. The Village of Fishkill was home to one of the largest supply depots for the Continental Army during the war. And after the burning of Kingston by the British in 1777 — in retaliation for the Patriot victory at Saratoga — Poughkeepsie served as the state capital. In 1778, General George Washington used the John Kane House in Pawling, now a museum and home to the Pawling Historical Society, as his headquarters. Meanwhile, the Verplanck family homestead at Mount Gulian Historic Site in Beacon served as the headquarters of Patriot General Friedrich Von Steuben. After the war, Von Steuben and his fellow Continental officers formed America’s first veterans' organization, the Society of the Cincinnati, at Mount Gulian. To commemorate this legacy, Destination Dutchess invites residents and visitors to engage with history in fresh, accessible and exciting ways with its Commander in Cheers augmented reality experience.
RevCon 2025
June 14, 2025, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rain or shine.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, Hyde Park
This free, family-friendly event brings 18th-century history to life with Revolutionary War reenactors including founding father Benjamin Franklin. There will be demonstrations of military camp life, uniforms, tactics, weapons and wool-spinning. Historians at the accompanying history fair will answer questions about life in Revolutionary America, share details on the Hudson Valley's role in the Revolution and provide hands-on activities designed for all ages. Todd Braisted, noted historian and author of more than 60 books and publications, will also present: "They Absolutely Did Not Murmur: The Hudson Valley Takes Up Arms for King George."
Revolutionary Cider Celebration
June 28, 2025, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rain or shine.
Fishkill Farms, Hopewell Junction
Guests will partake in a day filled with Revolutionary War and Colonial-era history, hayrides, food tastings, farm experiences and hard cider. Dutchess County Historian Will Tatum, Cider Historian Mark Turdo, and Hudson Valley master storyteller Jonathan Kruk will regale families with tales of 18th century America and the Revolutionary War. Fishkill Farm’s Treasury Cider Bar will also offer flights of four ciders of your choice on their outside cider deck for $12 and will be celebrating the release of Counterpane, their cherry and stone fruit cider. Advance reservations are required to pick-your-own produce at the farm.
Commander in Cheers
Available now, the Commander in Cheers augmented reality experience continues to engage history buffs and casual explorers alike. This free, self-guided digital experience is available at over 20 participating taverns, tasting rooms and restaurants in six different regions of Dutchess County. By using a mobile device and scanning a QR code on specially-marked coasters, Destination Dutchess’ hologram of George Washington — also known as Tiny George — will appear to share a story about one of Dutchess County’s revolutionary endeavors. Each region features its own story. Visit all six regions to activate each tale.
Dutchess County Historic Tavern Trail
The Tavern Trail is a collaborative endeavor between the Dutchess County Department of History, local historical societies and signature food and beverage partners to create an innovative program that highlights the county’s rich history. Join Dutchess County Historian Will Tatum as he tells engaging stories of local history with a focus on the Real Time Revolution, tracing developments in Dutchess County during 1775.
Wednesday, June 25, 6-7 p.m., Old Drovers Inn, Dover
Friday, August 1, 6-7 p.m., Germania of Poughkeepsie
Friday, September 19, 6-7 p.m., Lasting Joy Brewery, Tivoli
Wednesday, October 22, 6-7 p.m. Foster's Coach House, Rhinebeck
These events are just the beginning of REV250, Dutchess County’s campaign to commemorate the 250th birthday of the United States. Celebrations will continue in 2025 through 2026 and beyond with historical programming, educational events, exhibits and more. To learn more details about Dutchess County’s place in the American Revolution and to stay up to date on REV250 events and programs, visit DestinationDutchess.com/rev250.
