10 VA250 Events to Celebrate America’s Semiquincentennial

The Flame of Revolution: 5th Va Convention

Williamsburg

May 15–16: Embark on a historical journey and learn how Williamsburg served as the political center for the American Revolution. View powerful reenactments and fireworks while understanding how the 13 original colonies came together. ColonialWilliamsburg.org

Memorial Day Parade & Festival

Falls Church

May 25: Falls Church honors military servicemembers’ sacrifices and America’s revolutionary history to commemorate America 250. The day begins with the festival, before transitioning into the Memorial Day Ceremony to pay respects to fallen heroes. FallsChurchVa.gov

Oh, Henry! A Revolutionary Life

Brookneal

May 29–31: Patrick Henry descendants travel from across the country to remember his legacy in America’s founding through a powerful, original play that revives and recounts Henry’s life. RedHill.org

Freedom Flows Festival

Front Royal

May 30: Learn about the Shenandoah River’s role in commerce, transportation, and independence, and celebrate the theme “Freedom Flows Through Us.” Connect with the community and remember the people, places, and stories that have shaped Warren County.  Facebook: Warren County VA250

Virginia Resolved

Stratford

June 6–7: Travel back in time to learn about the Revolutionary Lee Resolution. Spend a weekend at the home of Richard Henry Lee and enjoy two days of live music, fireworks, and living history. StratfordHall.org

Shenandoah Celebrates 1776

Woodstock

June 20: Experience a festive day in historic Woodstock with living history activities. Learn from esteemed authors and historians, or trek through Revolutionary War encampments and meet cavalry regiments to experience the history yourself. VA250.org

VMHC IllumiNATION VMHC IllumiNATION

Richmond

June 25–28: The Virginia Museum of History & Culture building lights up with the American story brought to life through video art projections and swelling music for a spectacular celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. VirginiaHistory.org

Expressions 2026: America250

Martinsville

June 27—Aug. 14: At this open-entry exhibition presented by Piedmont Arts and Lynwood Artists, explore a range of perspectives and interpretations of the revolutionary ideals of freedom, identity, and progress through different artworks focusing on the theme “America250.” PiedmontArts.org

America’s 250th Birthday Bash

 Pembroke

July 3–5: Celebrate July Fourth in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, and connect with nature, family, and history at Mountain Lake Lodge. Enjoy peaceful hikes and a patriotic pool party at this celebration. MtnLakeLodge.com

George Washington: A Revolutionary Life

Mount Vernon

July: In this updated George Washington exhibit, learn how our first President’s life, decisions, and legacy impact us today by learning about his challenges and experiences as a President and a general during his revolutionary life. MountVernon.org


Featured photo of IllumiNATION courtesy of VMHC. This article originally appeared in the May 2026 issue.

Abby Borgeson
Abby Borgeson is an editorial intern at Virginia Living. She is a current undergraduate student at The College of William & Mary and is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film & Media Studies and History.