SATURDAY FEBRUARY 1, 2025 – IN HARRISBURG

Photo Op with General Lafayette – State Capitol 4 pm-4:30 pm  

Meet up with General Lafayette, John Harris Junior, and other period re-enactors at the steps of the Pennsylvania State Capitol. This is a chance to take some photos with our esteemed guests and welcome General Lafayette to our fine city.

Location: the Pennsylvania Capitol steps at State and 3rd Streets

Open to the public and free of charge

A Bicentennial Reception Commemorating the Marquis de Lafayette’s Historic Visit to the New State Capitol in Harrisburg 6 pm-9 pm

Join a celebratory evening to commemorate General Lafayette’s visit to Harrisburg at the very place where he stayed in 1825: the historic Governor Shulze Mansion at 27 N. Front Street (adjoining Harrisburg’s McCormick Riverfront Library). Mingle with Lafayette himself, John Harris Junior, and other dignitaries, in the restored parlor of the 1825 governor’s residence where Lafayette stayed for 2 nights.  Enjoy festive hors d’oeuvres, sparkling wine, and period music as we toast America’s “Fabulous Fighting Frenchman” and hero of two worlds. Period early American or French attire is encouraged!

Location: Governor Shulze Mansion at 27 North Front Street in Harrisburg

Pre-registration is required and tickets are $75 per person – click here to register

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 2, 2025 – IN HARRISBURG AND YORK

Marquis de Lafayette Returns: A Conversation with Elizabeth Reese and General Lafayette  1 pm-3 pm

Continue celebrating the bicentennial of Lafayette’s visit to Harrisburg at the John Harris-Simon Cameron mansion on Sunday afternoon. Public Historian and author Elizabeth Reese will share insights into the life and accomplishments of the man called a “hero of two worlds”, with a look at his.  And then we expect a special visit from the General himself, accompanied by John Harris, Jr!  We welcome Lafayette fans of all ages.  Hosted by the Historical Society of Dauphin County. Light refreshments will be served.

Location: John Harris – Simon Cameron Mansion at 219 Front Street in Harrisburg

Open to the public and free of charge

General Lafayette in York! 4 pm

Join us in welcoming General Lafayette as he recreates his visit to York in 1825! Our event will begin in Continental Square with a procession down Market Street to the Colonial Complex and ending at the History Center for brief remarks, a pop-up display of Lafayette-related artifacts, and light refreshments. Come dressed for the weather and ready to hear from Lafayette during a recreation of his 1825 toast. 

 Accompanied by the Central York Middle School Fife and Drums and in partnership with the American Friends of Lafayette, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the York County History Center.

Location: Continental Square (to start) at 1 East Market Street in York, proceeding to the Colonial Complex and History Center

Open to the public and free of charge

With special thank you to the following organizations that have collaborated to bring these celebrations to central Pennsylvania:

• American Friends of Lafayette
• Art Association of Harrisburg
• Dauphin County Library System
• Historic Harrisburg
• Harrisburg Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
• Historical Society of Dauphin County

Thank you to our sponsors: Enders Insurance and the American Friends of Lafayette

And special thank you to Michael Halbert (General Lafayette) and David Biser (John Harris, Jr.)