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Fredericksburg Parent & Family

VA250 Signature Events Across the Commonwealth

May 11, 2026 10:48AM ● By Amanda Danaher
Big things are happening across Virginia as the state begins celebrating America’s 250th birthday, and there are so many ways for families to be part of it. From hands-on history and powerful storytelling to ships sailing into port and can’t-miss events, these signature celebrations make it easy to experience history in a way that actually sticks. Whether you’re planning a day trip or just looking for something meaningful to do together, this is one of those rare moments where the past feels close to home and worth showing up for.

April 24–25, 2026

America’s Semiquincentennial Celebration: Inspiring a Season of Civic Renewal
Kickoff event opening Virginia’s 250th commemoration year, highlighting civic engagement and the nation’s founding ideals.
Location: Colonial Williamsburg
Cost: FREE!

May 2, 2026

Pen to Paper: The Civic Gospel of the Declaration of Independence
Focus on the writing and ideas behind the Declaration of Independence at Monticello.
Location: Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
Cost: FREE!

May 15–16, 2026

The Flame of Revolution: 250th Anniversary of the 5th Virginia Convention
Commemoration of Virginia’s revolutionary-era leadership and debates on independence.
Location: Colonial Williamsburg

June 2026

George Washington’s Mount Vernon: A Revolutionary Life Experience
Special programming celebrating George Washington’s legacy and leadership.
Location: Mount Vernon

Juneteenth Commemoration Events (Statewide)
Programs exploring African American history and the journey toward freedom.
Location: Various locations, VA

June 7, 2026

Virginia Resolved: 250th Anniversary of the Lee Resolution for Independence
Marks the formal push toward independence introduced by Richard Henry Lee.
Location: Stratford Hall

June 12–14, 2026

Freedom Flows on the Potomac: Virginia Declaration of Rights Commemoration
Explores civil rights foundations through George Mason’s legacy.
Location: Gunston Hall

June 12–23, 2026

Sail250® Virginia: Tall Ships Goodwill Tour
International fleet of tall ships visiting multiple Virginia ports.
Locations: Yorktown, Hampton, Norfolk, Richmond, and others

July 4, 2026

America. Made in Virginia: 250 Years Together
Statewide Independence Day celebration with ceremonies, performances and broadcast event.
Location: Colonial Williamsburg

August 2026

African Landing Day Commemoration
Honors the arrival of the first Africans in Virginia and their legacy.
Location: Fort Monroe

September 17–October 31, 2026

The Turn of the Tide of Success: Kings Mountain Commemoration
Reenactments and programming tied to Revolutionary War victory.
Location: Barter Theatre 

October 7, 2026

First Virginia General Assembly 250th Anniversary
Commemoration of Virginia’s early legislative history.
Location: Colonial Williamsburg

October 9, 2026

250th Anniversary of the Historic First Baptist Church
Celebration of one of Virginia’s oldest Black church congregations and its legacy.
Location: Colonial Williamsburg







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