Battle of Fall River Reenactment Weekend
May 31 - June 1
Come to Fall River Heritage State Park to commemorate the 247th anniversary of the Battle of Fall River on Saturday, May 31, and Sunday, June 1. A weekend-long living history event will take place on the same riverbanks that witnessed the battle.
The Battle of Fall River Reenactment Weekend will feature a variety of engaging activities designed to immerse visitors in the Revolutionary War era and the history of Fall River.
DCR Fall River Heritage State Park will host the event, presented by the Lafayette-Durfee Historical Foundation, the City of Fall River, Viva Fall River and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR). Funding for the reenactment weekend came in part from the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, the Mass Cultural Council, the Fall River Cultural Council and St. Anne’s Credit Union.
Several local military reenactment units will participate, including the 54th Regiment of Foote and the 13th Continental Line. Both days will feature infantry drills, open-fire cooking demonstrations, blacksmithing, sailmaking and pottery. The encampment will open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m on both days.
The Battle of Fall River
On a fateful day in 1778, British troops landed at the base of what is now Anawan and Pocasset Streets. They expected little resistance as they marched uphill. Instead, Col. Joseph Durfee and 16 brave militiamen met them. They then unleashed a fierce barrage of musket fire from behind a stone wall on the ridge. Outnumbered and outgunned, these local patriots stood their ground, defending their village against the Redcoats’ advance.
As the battle raged, Durfee’s men skillfully withdrew across the Quequechan River. They then removed the bridge planks behind them and made a final stand, forcing the British into retreat. Though the colonists suffered no casualties, the British burned local mills and homes before fleeing to their ships. Today, this skirmish — a story of courage and resilience — is remembered as the Battle of Fall River.
Join the commemoration of this historic event with a weekend of reenactments, honoring the heroes who stood tall against overwhelming odds.
Massachusetts 250
The Battle of Fall River Reenactment Weekend is honored to be part of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ MA250, a statewide initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of pivotal events leading up to the American Revolution. MA250 celebrates Massachusetts’ rich history and its role in the fight for independence.
The program runs from 2025 through 2033, marking key milestones from the colonial resistance to the adoption of the U.S. Constitution. Through events, educational programs and community engagement, MA250 aims to inspire reflection on the past while encouraging conversations about democracy, freedom and civic responsibility today.
Battle of Fall River Reenactment
The Battle of Fall River living history event will take place rain or shine, so please dress accordingly.
This event is free and suitable for all ages; the Heritage State Park and Visitors Center are wheelchair accessible. Reasonable accommodation is available with advanced notice. Restrooms are available for use inside the Fall River Heritage State Park Visitors Center.
Parking
Free parking is available in the DCR Lot at 5 Water Street. Parking is limited. Additional lots will be available, as well as a trolley shuttle service. More details to come.
What to Expect
The Battle of Fall River Reenactment Weekend (May 31–June 1) will feature a variety of engaging activities designed to immerse visitors in the Revolutionary War era and the history of Fall River. Some key activities include:
Living History Encampment
- Experience an 18th-century military camp with reenactors portraying soldiers and camp followers.
- See demonstrations of daily life, including cooking, blacksmithing, and musket cleaning.
- Interact with reenactors to learn about period clothing, weaponry, and tactics.
Battle Reenactments
Witness dramatic reenactments of skirmishes between Colonial militia and British troops.
Revolutionary War Artillery & Weapons Demonstrations
- See cannon and musket firing demonstrations.
- Learn about the technology and tactics of 18th-century warfare.
- Talk with experts about the evolution of military equipment.
Market & Artisan Fair
Browse handcrafted goods from craftspeople and historical reenactors.
Revolutionary Reception: Sunday, June 1 only
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Learn more Revolutionary history in this complete guide to Revolutionary War Sites in New England. Brought to you by the New England Historical Society. Click here to order your copy in paperback, here to order an ebook.