VA250: America Was Made In Virginia
As the United States approaches its semiquincentennial, Virginia stands at the heart of the celebration. From the revolutionary echoes of Williamsburg to the hallowed halls of Monticello, the Commonwealth invites you to explore the diverse stories and iconic landmarks that shaped a nation throughout 250 years of American history.
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Commemorate the 250th anniversary of Richard Henry Lee’s Resolution for Independence with Stratford Hall and VA250!
Plan for a weekend of revolutionary activity: Living history interpreters and demonstrations, cavalry drills, historic speeches, a citizenship ceremony, fireworks, and plenty of food, music, and family fun.
Saturday, June 6 Evening Program 8-9:30pm; gates 6pm FREE
Sunday, June 7 Living History Program 12-4pm $15 ages 14+, $10 ages 6-13, and free for ages 5 & under.
Smooth Sailing Ahead at the Sail Yorktown Festival
Historic Yorktown comes alive June 12–14, 2026, as towering, tall ships sail into port for the Sail Yorktown Festival! Step aboard iconic vessels like Picton Castle, Godspeed, and Luna for free deck tours, immersive living history, reenactments, drills, and hands-on fun all weekend long. The excitement continues Saturday night with a powerful Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra performance at the Yorktown Victory Monument—an awe-inspiring patriotic concert under the stars.
Click to learn more about the Sail Yorktown Festival.
Experience Onancock Sails Forward, June 12-14, 2026!
Explore it all. Stay awhile. Make history with us in Onancock, Virginia! Onancock Sails Forward – June 12-14, 2026. Onancock Sails Forward isn’t just one event, it’s an experience across the entire town. From the tall ship Lady Maryland to live music, art, performances, and events happening all around, there’s something to discover at every turn. Plan your visit at onancocksailsforward.com
Click to learn more about onancocksailsforward.com
Step Into History on Lynchburg’s Part of the James River
The 41st Annual James River Batteau Festival returns June 17, 19 & 20, bringing history, culture, and riverfront energy to Lynchburg. Start with a Batteau Experience Ride on Wednesday, enjoy live music at Friday’s Launch Party, and don’t miss Saturday’s ceremonial launch, Forward to Freedom, as a part of the 250th Anniversary of America’s Independence, plus art, demos, and activities. Free to attend and easy to explore!
Plan your visit to Lynchburg now.
City of Salem
Celebrate VA250 at two great events in Salem, VA. The Salem Museum hosts Gwynn’s Island Weekend on June 27-28, honoring the anniversary of the battle led by Gen. Andrew Lewis of Salem that forced the state’s last royal governor out of the colonies.
The Salem Fair will also highlight the Battle of Gwynn’s Island on July 4 and 5 with an interpreter representing General Lewis. The July 4th fireworks display is an official VA250 event.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival
There’s something unforgettable about experiencing live music in the mountains, and Shenandoah Valley Music Festival brings that magic to life all summer at historic Shrine Mont. Guests can enjoy incredible performances from legendary artists and standout performers, spread out a picnic beneath the stars, and take in the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley. Whether it’s a night out with friends or a weekend escape, every concert offers a chance to create lasting summer memories.
Click to learn more about the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival.
Barter Theatre
Barter Theatre, located in Abingdon, Virginia, is the nation’s longest-running professional theatre and a cornerstone of American arts history. Founded in 1933 during the Great Depression, Barter earned its name by accepting food and goods in exchange for performances. Today, it produces a wide range of classic, contemporary, and new works across multiple stages, serves audiences from across the country, and is deeply committed to arts education, community engagement, and developing the next generation of artists and creators.
Click to learn more about the Barter Theatre.
Visit Lynchburg, Virginia
Kick off the new year with a visit to Lynchburg, Virginia – where history, nature, and local culture come together with ease.
Enjoy riverfront walks, welcoming coffee shops, and walkable neighborhoods filled with locally owned dining and shopping. With scenic views and cultural attractions, Lynchburg is an ideal weekend getaway any time of year. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there’s always something new to discover in LYH.
Click to learn more about Visiting Lynchburg, Virginia.
Wolf Creek Indian Village & Museum!
Take a step back in time to the early 1500’s and experience Native American life when you visit Wolf Creek Indian Village & Museum!
Based on the Brown-Johnston archeology site which was discovered in 1970, Wolf Creek Indian Village & Museum has a reconstructed village based on what is known about the site and its inhabitants.
Tour guides are available to escort you through our village and give you a glimpse into the life of the Eastern Woodland Indians. Learn about their homes and families, pottery and basket making, arrowhead and tool making, food and cooking, hunting and hide tanning, as well as the history of the site!
We offer a conventional indoor museum, gift shop, and picnicking spots. We also host group tours! For more information visit our website at www.indianvillage.org or call us at (276) 688-3438.
Arlington HistoryFest 250
Be part of history at Arlington HistoryFest 250, a free, one day outdoor celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, bringing the past to life with live reenactments, historical storytelling, music, hands on demonstrations, and activities for all ages. Join neighbors and visitors on May 9, 2026, at Kenmore Middle School to explore Arlington’s role in America’s founding, meet costumed interpreters, enjoy local food, and celebrate history where it happened. Don’t miss this unforgettable day.
Click to learn more about arlhist.org/historyfest
The Bodacious Bazaar at the Hampton Roads Convention Center: May 22-24, 2026
Shop, sip, and stroll your way through the Spring Bodacious Bazaar, a vibrant three-day event at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. Discover over 250 talented vendors, artists, and crafters alongside Virginia wineries, offering something for every style and taste. From unique handmade finds to local flavors, this beloved community event brings creativity, shopping, and fun together all in one place.
1776
1776 is a groundbreaking Broadway musical that brings the heated debates behind the signing of the Declaration of Independence to life.
Set in Philadelphia during the summer of 1776, the story follows John Adams as he struggles to unite a divided Continental Congress and push for independence from Britain. With sharp wit, memorable songs, and thoughtful historical insight, 1776 humanizes the Founding Fathers while celebrating the courage and compromise that shaped a new nation. Playing February 27–March 1, 2026, at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts.
Click here to learn more about the musical 1776.
Lynchburg’s PDGA Champions Cup
Lynchburg has become a premier destination for disc golf, with championship-level courses and a growing national reputation. This April 9-12, the PDGA Champions Cup will bring top professional players to compete right in the LYH area. Whether you’re a dedicated player or new to the sport, it’s the perfect time to plan a spring visit and experience one of Virginia’s standout disc golf communities.
Click to learn more about the PDGA Champions Cup.
Author: VisitVirginia
