WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT
THE 2026 BURNING OF KINGSTON
THE MANY FACES OF REVOLUTION
The 2026 Burning of Kingston takes place three months after the 250th anniversary of the signing of the American colonies’ Declaration of Independence in 1776, from October 15-18th in Kingston New York. In our exploration of this remarkable time in our nation’s history, events at this year’s Burning of Kingston will showcase the perspectives of the many faces involved in the Revolution. This includes points of view of combatants from all sides, civilians, indigenous peoples, enslaved peoples and indentured servants, as well as the unique perspectives of women, the elderly, children and people of different classes and trades. We will also include the cultural context of the Revolutionary Period, including its music, art, literature and crafts. This year’s Burning program hosts stories, performances, re-enactments, film-screenings, public displays, a grand ball and more, showcasing the life and times of the Revolution, how it impacted the Kingston community, and beyond. Visitors to this year's Burning of Kingston can expect to be entertained, informed, and encouraged to look at events from 250 years ago in new and unique ways as well as more familiar interpretations. It is free and open to the public.
Please return later for the 2026 schedule of the Burning of Kingston
Jas. Wallace to Commodore Hotham, Oct. 17, 1777
"…We proceeded up the river destroying a number of vessels as we sailed along without stopping until we arrived at Ezopus Creek, where we found two batteries; one of two guns the other of three guns erected, and an armed galley at the mouth of the creek…It was determined to land and destroy them…"
'Dependence' Ship Log
"….at 1/2 past 10 a.m., the Rebles begun to Cannonade us from their Battery at the mouth of Esopas Creek fired 9 twenty four pounder round shot at the Battery and Reble Galley that were playing on us…."
- Gen. Vaughan to Sir Henry Clinton
"Sir, I had the Honor of proceeding by your Order with the Troops under my Command on the 15th inst. And destroyed all the Enemy's Vessels and Houses til our Arrival off Esopus on the 17th, and upon my Reconnoitering the Rebel Situation there, I perceived a Battery of 5 Pieces more…."