On June 28, 1825, General Marquis de Lafayette — hero of the American Revolution — began his historic tour of Vermont right here in Windsor. Part of a nationwide celebration honoring his fight for American independence, Lafayette’s visit was met with parades, speeches, and heartfelt public receptions. His journey through the state reflected Vermont’s deep patriotic spirit and lasting commitment to the ideals of liberty and democracy. On the 28th of June, 2025 — exactly two hundred years after Lafayette’s visit to Windsor — Windsor will commemorate this historic visit with a reenactment of the events starting at 7:30am when Lafayette crossed the Connecticut River over the covered bridge from Cornish New Hampshire into Windsor. After the reenactment proceeding have moved onto the rest of the state, celebrations in Windsor will continue throughout the day! The Windsor and West Windsor Historical Societies are working with the American Friends of Lafayette association to commemorate that first visit with reenactors, descendants of Revolutionary War heroes, and local citizens, reproducing events and timing of 200 years ago.

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Morning Procession: 7:30 AM at the Historic Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge
Commencing at 7:30 AM, a carriage carrying Lafayete will make its journey across the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge and up Main Street to the Old South Church cemetery. We invite you to gather along the route and gather in designated viewing areas to witness this symbolic crossing, welcoming General Lafayette to Windsor! Look for the people distributing French & American flags to wave. Make a sign or banner of welcome and bring it along.! Brought to you by the Windsor and West Windsor Historical Societies, see the event information on their website: Re-enactment of Lafayette visit to Windsor

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Wreath-Laying Ceremony: 8:00 AM at the Old South Church Cemetery

1798 Main St, Windsor, VT
Immediately following the procession, a wreath-laying ceremony commemorating Windsor’s Revolutionary War heroes will be conducted by the Daughters of the American Revolution. The ceremony will conclude with brief historical remarks commemorating the Bicentennial.

Community Breakfast: 8:15 AM at the Windsor Elks Club

156 Main St, Windsor, VT
The morning’s events will culminate in a community gathering with free breakfast at the Windsor Elks Club, 156 Main Street, beginning at 8:15. Voluntary donations gladly accepted! Lafayette will leave for Hartland by 9:00.

11am: Lafayette Takes on Tyranny on the Windsor Common

Speech by Roger Barraby. As a representative of our premiere alliance with France, le Marquis de Lafayette speaks on the current state of American government. 

12-4pm: La Fête de Lafayette AKA Layfayette's Party on the Windsor Common

40 State St, Windsor, Vermont

Come to the Windsor Commons for music, food, and historical tours! Food concessions by Munchie-Rollz and the Windsor Rotary. FROMO takes the stage from 12:30pm-2pm and Derek and the Demons from 2:30pm-4pm. Historical Tours will be at 1pm and 3pm led by Judy Hayward, Historic Windsor Vermont Preservation. 

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Windsor Restaurant Week

During the celebration week the restaurants of Windsor will have french themed specials! Stay tuned for details!