Cocktails and Congress

Drink in the moment independence began. Step back in time to 1774, when revolutionary ideas first took root in Philadelphia and take a front row seat to all the action behind the scenes at the First Continental Congress. Watch the Founders debate independence inside the storied walls of Carpenters’ Hall. Witness the tension, courage, and conviction that shaped the path to American liberty through short, vivid scenes while enjoying cocktails and snacks. Feel the energy of spirited debates and passionate disagreements with the Founding Fathers – John Adams and John Dickinson – as well as members of the enslaved and free Black communities, as they wrestle with the fate of the colonies behind closed doors.

Independence After Hours

Step inside history after hours, behind closed doors, and without the crowds. Independence After Hours offers an extraordinary, behind-the-scenes exploration of our country's founding. It's the summer of 1776, and a Colonial host "sneaks" guests into the Pennsylvania State House for debates, late-night tensions, and encounters with the Founding Fathers-experienced up close and without the daytime crowds. The evening concludes with toasts to the founding of the country with History Makers at a nearby watering hole with a choice of cocktail or mocktail.