In the fourth lecture of the series, Misti Furr and Dale Cook of the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia will consider what independence meant for Virginians in the backcountry and for the myriad Indigenous nations in the Eastern Woodlands. This talk... Read More

Shore History is pleased to present the Onancock Premier of the new film called The American Constitution. This movie brings an engaging national story to the Eastern Shore to create a space for local conversation about the Constitution and its hi... Read More

Shore History is pleased to present the Onancock Premier of the new film called The American Constitution. This movie brings an engaging national story to the Eastern Shore to create a space for local conversation about the Constitution and its hi... Read More

Travel writer Bill Clevlen is out with a new book called Presidential Road Trips. The book guides readers to places where American presidents made history. From George Washington’s birthplace and the train depot where Jimmy Carter launched his pres... Read More

Family Frights at Jamestown Settlement, a Halloween-themed museum night for children and families, returns Friday and Saturday, October 23 & 24, 6-7:30 p.m. and 8-9:30 p.m. for a not-so-scary good time for all. Don’t be afraid – this weekend i... Read More

2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence during a critical year in the American Revolution-1776. Throughout the United States this year, Americans have been commemorating this milestone birthday. Join the City of Fairfax Th... Read More

One of America’s first foodies, Thomas Jefferson had a taste for fine wines and gourmet foods. Join the president, as portrayed by actor Bill Barker, in his private retreat to raise a glass to a successful harvest season and enjoy a multicourse din... Read More

Beginning at the Albemarle County Circuit Courthouse, this tour explores the history of the region from the Monacan Nation to its modern history and the removal of four controversial Charlottesville monuments in 2021. Surrounded by beautifully preser... Read More

Take a casual, eight block guided walk around Charlottesville's historic pedestrian Downtown Mall, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. Surrounded by original buildings, discover the local history of three important Presidents, learn about ... Read More

Join public historian David Heiby for a guided walking tour exploring what is often described as the most historic cluster of cemeteries in the United States. Established after Alexandria’s devastating yellow fever epidemic of 1803 and the city’s... Read More

This year marks the nation’s 250th birthday. Professor Margaret Hu, Davison M. Douglas Professor of Law and Director of the Digital Democracy Lab at William & Mary Law School, will explore how the American Revolution and the AI Revolution may run i... Read More

Celebrate the crisp autumn season with 18th-century activities and demonstrations at the Farm at Mount Vernon. Watch wheat treading demonstrations in George Washington's innovative 16-sided threshing barn and meet Mount Vernon’s farm animals. ... Read More

New London Day Oct. 24, 2026 will focus on Oct. 1776 when all Bedford Co. males aged 16 - 50 came to New London, the county seat, for 10 days militia drills. Visit a Rev War encampment near the site of the New London arsenal (1775 - 1813) where firea... Read More

Join us at Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House for Countdown to the Holidays, a FREE site-wide autumn celebration packed with family-friendly activities, hands-on craft workshops, live music, and local history! Site-Wide Highlights: • Historic House... Read More

Join Rippon Lodge Historic Site on Saturday, Oct 24 for The Road to Victory, from 11am to 3 pm;. Rippon Lodge Historic Site in Woodbridge, VA welcomes all to experience a day full of colonial living history demonstrations focused on the Revolutionary... Read More

Celebrate the crisp autumn season with 18th-century activities and demonstrations at the Farm at Mount Vernon. Watch wheat treading demonstrations in George Washington's innovative 16-sided threshing barn and meet Mount Vernon’s farm animals. ... Read More

Join us for Rosewell: Architectural Dream, a special program exploring the architecture and legacy of one of Gloucester’s most remarkable historic landmarks. Sunday, October 25 at 2 p.m. Abingdon Episcopal Church The program will be presented by... Read More

What did the Revolution look like in the rearview mirror for the founding generation? And what did the future hold for the young nation? Author Ryan L. Cole joins us on October 28 from 4:30 to 5:30 PM in conversation about his book The Last Adieu, wh... Read More

What did the Revolution look like in the rear-view mirror for the founding generation? And what did the future hold for the young nation? Author Ryan L. Cole joins us on October 28 from 4:30 to 5:30 PM in conversation about his book The Last Adieu, w... Read More

Salsa can feel intimidating from the sidelines. If you have ever hesitated to join the dance floor, here is your sign: you can absolutely learn to dance! Join Mambo Bones Salsa Dance Studio at The Valentine Museum for an hour of rhythm, connection, ... Read More

In the fifth and final lecture of the series, Nick Powers, Curator of Collections at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, will address the Valley as a place of revolutionary thought, action, and consequence from the period of the Revolutionary War up... Read More

Take a tour of the historic Lee-Fendall House at night! A quieter, cozier experience in Old Town Alexandria, this tour covers the history of the house and the ghostly stories from within its walls. As you are led through the first and second floors o... Read More

Beginning at the Albemarle County Circuit Courthouse, this tour explores the history of the region from the Monacan Nation to its modern history and the removal of four controversial Charlottesville monuments in 2021. Surrounded by beautifully preser... Read More

Take a casual, eight block guided walk around Charlottesville's historic pedestrian Downtown Mall, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. Surrounded by original buildings, discover the local history of three important Presidents, learn about ... Read More

This is no trick! We'll have digging and treats at Fairfield on Halloween! And since Halloween falls on a Saturday this year during Archaeology month, we're taking full advantage, so join us for a weekend dig you won't want to miss. Dress as your ... Read More

Celebrate spooky season at the Lee-Fendall House & bring the whole family for an afternoon of fall-themed fun! Activities will include pumpkin decorating, a craft station, face painting, and games. Admission includes up to 2 pumpkins per family. P... Read More

Take a tour of the historic Lee-Fendall House at night! A quieter, cozier experience in Old Town Alexandria, this tour covers the history of the house and the ghostly stories from within its walls. As you are led through the first and second floors o... Read More

Collect candy around the historic grounds and celebrate Halloween with 18th-century entertainment and activities. Hear live musical performances, see soap-making and blacksmith demonstrations, and meet George and Martha Washington. Plus, kids c... Read More

In 1619, after a stormy voyage across the Atlantic, the Good Ship Margaret landed at Berkeley Hundred with thirty-six men aboard. In accordance with instructions from the Virginia Company, these settlers observed the first official English Thanksgivi... Read More

Follow the life of London Pleasants from enslavement to self-emancipation in Henrico County. Learn about his time as a Black Loyalist and fate after the American Revolution. This talk will be held in the Parsons Community Center. ... Read More

How did ordinary people experience life in the colonial and Revolutionary eras, from the humdrum day-to-day happenings to the extraordinary events still familiar to millions? In his two books, "Vignettes of Colonial Virginia" and "Vignettes of Revolu... Read More

The Kent Bicentennial Portfolio, titled "Spirit of Independence," includes 12 prints made by 12 American artists. The portfolio was commissioned by the Lorillard Tobacco Company in celebration of the United States’ Bicentennial in 1976. The t... Read More

Join renowned architectural historian Calder Loth at the Valentine for an engaging exploration of Richmond’s architectural heritage. Focusing on the ancient classical design elements woven throughout the city’s buildings, Loth will reveal the sto... Read More

The Williamsburg Beer Festival is an annual community celebration that brings together Virginia breweries, local restaurants, small businesses, and families to support a shared mission of giving back. Since its founding, the festival has raised more ... Read More

Don’t throw away your shot to see Hamilton: An American Musical for free! The VA250 Mobile Museum will be here so check it out before the movie begins. Bring a blanket or chair along with friends and family! Picnics are welcome and movie begins at ... Read More

As America’s 250th celebration of the Declaration of Independence comes to a close, ring out the momentous anniversary year with winter nights aglow in red, white and blue. The Winter Lantern Festival returns to Jamestown Settlement, a museum of... Read More

St. Luke’s Historic Church & Museum in beautiful Smithfield, VA, has invited local and regional artists of all ages to take part in our Quarterly Artist Invitational, a celebration of creativity, community, and heritage. The first invitational will... Read More

An exciting day of steeplechase horse racing at the home of James and Dolley Madison. Seven spectacular horse races as well as Jack Russell Terrier Races, Corgi Races, Hat Contest, Tailgating, and extensive vendor area for shopping and tours of Montp... Read More

Beginning at the Albemarle County Circuit Courthouse, this tour explores the history of the region from the Monacan Nation to its modern history and the removal of four controversial Charlottesville monuments in 2021. Surrounded by beautifully preser... Read More

Take a casual, eight block guided walk around Charlottesville's historic pedestrian Downtown Mall, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. Surrounded by original buildings, discover the local history of three important Presidents, learn about ... Read More

It’s 1776, and the fate of the colonies hangs in the balance. Will you join those signing their names for independence, or remain faithful to the King? Discover the arguments, challenges, and choices that led ordinary Virginians to take sides durin... Read More

Chesterfield Coffee con is an event for the public to enjoy new products in the coffee world from local vendors and vendors around the east coast. Some vendors will provide samples where you can try before you buy. The event will feature local artist... Read More

This is the third running of our Run to the Revolution. T-shirts to all and awards to top 3 in each age group. ... Read More

Explore history through the flavors of the past at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. Learn about the history of tea, coffee and hot chocolate from the colonial period with this special foodways presentation. Samples of each will be provided. Limited spa... Read More

Do you know your Maria Reynolds from your Peggy Schuylers? Find out in our new trivia game where we will test your knowledge of the hit musical versus the real life of Alexander Hamilton. This will be held in the Parsons Community Center. ... Read More

Witness Patrick Henry Convince his Fellow Delegates to Take Up Arms Against the King! 12:00 PM Visitor Center Opens for walk-up Ticket Sales. Call 804.648.5015 to confirm availability. 1:00 PM Church doors open for seating 1:30 PM Reenactment beg... Read More

The next program of "Revolutionary Stories: Loudoun and Beyond" series at Loudoun Museum features James "Jay" G. Harrison III, Executive Director of The Museum of Culpeper History, historian, first person living history interpreter, and archaeologist... Read More

The Feuding Founders is a multi-site public history initiative that humanizes Silas Deane, John Jay, and the Lee brothers of Virginia-men who were in conversation, in collaboration, and sometimes in conflict with one another. The day opens with a ... Read More

The Northern Neck 250 Discovery Symposium is an annual collaboration of historic sites and museums that focuses on bringing new research to the community during the Semiquincentennial of the United States. This year’s theme, "The American Experimen... Read More

Join us for a dynamic program celebrating the vital role America's international allies played in securing independence. Dr. Michael Mulryan will explore France's pivotal contributions including Yorktown's Sister Cities: Port-Vendres, France, and Zwe... Read More

The Virginia Council and The Virginia War Memorial present Patrick K. O'Donnell. Mr. O'Donnell is a bestselling, critically acclaimed military historian and a leading authority on elite and special operations units. He is the author of fourteen books... Read More

Join us for a free lecture presented by anthropologist Ashley Spivey, Ph.D., and historian Katie Gibson, M.A., about the individual choices tribal citizens made in aims to protect their land, defend their liberty and question their loyalties during t... Read More

In honor of our nation's veterans, George Washington’s Mount Vernon admits FREE all active duty, former, or retired military personnel on Veterans Day. Enjoy musical performances by Mount Vernon’s fifer, the United States Air Force Strings, an... Read More

Join us as we honor our nation's veterans at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Free museum admission is available to the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown and Jamestown Settlement for veteran, active duty, reserve and retired milita... Read More

Join the fun as we celebrate Montgomery County's 250th anniversary on Nov. 11, 2026, near Regal Cinemas in Christiansburg, with food trucks, live performances, giveaways and more! Fireworks will be displayed from Christiansburg Huckleberry Park at 7 ... Read More

Join Library of Virginia historian Eric Johnson for an engaging history talk rooted in firsthand accounts of the Revolutionary era in Loudoun County. Throughout the war and its aftermath, local residents of all backgrounds shared their stories via l... Read More

Step into the world of tea with a day of sampling unique herb and tea blends while exploring the history, culture, and politics of tea on the eve of the American Revolution. Keynote speaker Lorna Reeves, editor-in-chief of TeaTime Magazine, will sh... Read More

Alexandria was a bustling town during the Second World War filled with servicemen and women and civilians contributing to the war effort. On this two-mile walk around Old Town, visit sites where history took place and buildings where notable Alexandr... Read More

It’s anchors aweigh, my friend, as we celebrate everything there is to love about our waterfront locale! The Maritime Festival is packed with nautical fun, including delicious seafood, live music, and maritime-themed art. Meet pirates, learn abo... Read More

Beginning at the Albemarle County Circuit Courthouse, this tour explores the history of the region from the Monacan Nation to its modern history and the removal of four controversial Charlottesville monuments in 2021. Surrounded by beautifully preser... Read More

Take a casual, eight block guided walk around Charlottesville's historic pedestrian Downtown Mall, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. Surrounded by original buildings, discover the local history of three important Presidents, learn about ... Read More

Learn about the enslaved and free African Americans who lived and worked in the home throughout its years as a private residence. Hear the stories of their experiences and their contributions to the site and its history. Tickets are $15 per person... Read More

Learn about the enslaved and free African Americans who lived and worked in the home throughout its years as a private residence. Hear the stories of their experiences and their contributions to the site and its history.... Read More

Explore history through dance! Continue celebrating America's 250th birthday with a dance! Join us at Loudoun Museum for this fun program that explores the significance of music and dance during America’s colonial, revolutionary, and early republi... Read More

Join the Friends of Lucy Breckinridge for this special fundraising event. Step back in time for an authentic historic feast. Enjoy a beautifully curated autumn menu featuring fresh foods from local fields and gardens, inspired by traditional colonia... Read More

The program will explore the divisions that existed among Middlesex County residents during the American Revolution, when some supported independence from Great Britain while others remained loyal to the British Crown. Drawing upon the county's histo... Read More

What the Founders Read The year 1776 was about more than declaring independence from Britain; it also saw the adoption of the Virginia Declaration of Rights and the First Virginia Constitution. On the 250th anniversary of these landmark consti... Read More

Since the 18th century, the histories of Falls Church and Oakwood Cemetery have been intertwined. In a one-hour tour of the cemetery, we will encounter poets and soldiers, spies and villains, faith leaders and storekeepers, ornithologists and egg far... Read More

Share your family's American story in a discussion led by compassion educator Laura Banks and discover how honoring our diverse pasts can help us find common ground in the present. As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, join us for a mea... Read More

Author Marc Leepson presents a comprehensive look at the American flag, revealing its history and evolution through lesser-known facts and the influential people who shaped its story. Marc Leepson is a journalist, historian, and author of 10 books. ... Read More

Did you know Alexandria was home to one of the most revered female fundraisers of the American Revolution, or that President Woodrow Wilson sent an Alexandria women on a mission aboard a U.S. battleship? Join Alexandria Celebrates Women (ACW) on a th... Read More

Beginning at the Albemarle County Circuit Courthouse, this tour explores the history of the region from the Monacan Nation to its modern history and the removal of four controversial Charlottesville monuments in 2021. Surrounded by beautifully preser... Read More

Take a casual, eight block guided walk around Charlottesville's historic pedestrian Downtown Mall, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. Surrounded by original buildings, discover the local history of three important Presidents, learn about ... Read More

St. John’s Church Foundation presents a gender-reversed production of our time-honored Liberty or Death reenactment. In this historic rendition, women drawn from Richmond’s vibrant theatre and film community portray nine delegates to the Second V... Read More

St. John’s Church Foundation presents a gender-reversed production of our time-honored Liberty or Death reenactment. In this historic rendition, women drawn from Richmond’s vibrant theatre and film community portray nine delegates to the Second V... Read More

Before Europeans came to the area, the Doegs inhabited the local region. For Native American Heritage Month, join us as we rediscover the Algonquian Nation during this boardwalk tour. The group will meet at the Neabsco Creek Boardwalk Parking Lot on ... Read More

St. John’s Church Foundation presents a gender-reversed production of our time-honored Liberty or Death reenactment. In this historic rendition, women drawn from Richmond’s vibrant theatre and film community portray nine delegates to the Second V... Read More

The Lutheran Theological Seminary moved to the western side of Gettysburg in 1832, followed three decades later by national debates that tore apart the United States and divided the institution. As the Battle of Gettysburg opened on July 1, 1863, the... Read More

Eat, drink, shop and explore a gem of American history when the Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival returns to Thomas Jefferson’s south lawn. Join Poplar Forest in celebrating Jefferson’s legacy as the father of Virginia wine with tastings from multip... Read More

Join Mount Vernon for a candlelit guided tour and learn about holiday traditions in colonial Virginia, shared by costumed actors portraying George Washington’s family, friends, and enslaved or hired staff. Talk with Continental Army soldiers to ... Read More

Beginning at the Albemarle County Circuit Courthouse, this tour explores the history of the region from the Monacan Nation to its modern history and the removal of four controversial Charlottesville monuments in 2021. Surrounded by beautifully preser... Read More

Take a casual, eight block guided walk around Charlottesville's historic pedestrian Downtown Mall, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. Surrounded by original buildings, discover the local history of three important Presidents, learn about ... Read More

Join Mount Vernon for a candlelit guided tour and learn about holiday traditions in colonial Virginia, shared by costumed actors portraying George Washington’s family, friends, and enslaved or hired staff. Talk with Continental Army soldiers to ... Read More

Fort Boykin has been a part of American history since 1623 when a fort known as the Castle was constructed following the 1622 Indian Attack. It was reconstructed in 1776 during the American Revolution to defend against potential British attack, and t... Read More

Experience life as it was in the Revolutionary War era during this weekend of commemorative events. Witness exciting narrated reenactments of the Battle on both days, visit Patriot and British soldier’s encampments, meet historical figures and skil... Read More

Slow your pace, and enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of this festival time with a Christmas parade in Monterey, Holiday Vendor Market, visit from Santa, and specials and local restaurants and shops.... Read More

Join us for our first Holiday Trivia! Topics will include traditions, movies, music, history, & more! Come as a team or solo player and test your holiday knowledge. Ticket purchases include one alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage & snacks. While y... Read More

There’s no better time to visit Stratford Hall than during Christmastide. New this year, we’re excited to welcome Mr. & Mrs. Claus from the North Pole to collect letters from our post office! We’re also offering two dinner experiences to choose... Read More

Historian Blane Ampthor presents more stories of unsung heroes who displayed remarkable dedication and bravery in the line of duty. These individuals were often pivotal to key events in U.S. history.... Read More

Mount Vernon invites neurodivergent individuals and their families to explore the estate for a sensory-friendly morning. Take a special self-guided tour of the historic area, explore the rooms in the Mansion, and visit hands-on activity stations ... Read More

Join Mount Vernon for a candlelit guided tour and learn about holiday traditions in colonial Virginia, shared by costumed actors portraying George Washington’s family, friends, and enslaved or hired staff. Talk with Continental Army soldiers to ... Read More

Salsa can feel intimidating from the sidelines. If you have ever hesitated to join the dance floor, here is your sign: you can absolutely learn to dance! Join Mambo Bones Salsa Dance Studio at The Valentine Museum for an hour of rhythm, connection, ... Read More

On this candlelit tour, you will explore Lee-Fendall through the dynamic holiday traditions of the United States, beginning with the earliest years of the nation and taking us to the present day. Similarly to our traditional house tour, each room ... Read More

Join Mount Vernon for a candlelit guided tour and learn about holiday traditions in colonial Virginia, shared by costumed actors portraying George Washington’s family, friends, and enslaved or hired staff. Talk with Continental Army soldiers to ... Read More

Did you know Alexandria was home to one of the most revered female fundraisers of the American Revolution, or that President Woodrow Wilson sent an Alexandria women on a mission aboard a U.S. battleship? Join Alexandria Celebrates Women (ACW) on a th... Read More

Join Mount Vernon for a family-friendly celebration of the holiday season with an enchanted evening of Christmas Illuminations. Watch stunning holiday fireworks over the Potomac River and enjoy the atmospheric setting of an 18th-century military e... Read More

The Williamsburg Chapter, NSDAR, is proud to host its 5th Annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at Cedar Grove Cemetery on Saturday, December 19, 2026, at 12 noon. Cedar Grove Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 575 veterans represen... Read More

Compare and contrast English Christmas customs of the period with how the season may have been observed in the difficult early years of America’s first permanent English colony through special interpretive programs. In 17th-century England, the hol... Read More

At a Continental Army encampment and Revolution-era farm, visitors can hear accounts of Christmas and winter during the Revolutionary War. Learn about winter in the Continental Army encampment, including how soldiers cooked rations on an earthen kitc... Read More

Join us for an afternoon with Tim Rose as he explores the impact that Alexandria had on Washington's personal life and professional career. No other city in America had the impact that Alexandria had on George Washington’s personal life and prof... Read More

Join Mount Vernon for a family-friendly celebration of the holiday season with an enchanted evening of Christmas Illuminations. Watch stunning holiday fireworks over the Potomac River and enjoy the atmospheric setting of an 18th-century military e... Read More

Join Mount Vernon for a candlelit guided tour and learn about holiday traditions in colonial Virginia, shared by costumed actors portraying George Washington’s family, friends, and enslaved or hired staff. Talk with Continental Army soldiers to ... Read More

Join Mount Vernon for a candlelit guided tour and learn about holiday traditions in colonial Virginia, shared by costumed actors portraying George Washington’s family, friends, and enslaved or hired staff. Talk with Continental Army soldiers to ... Read More

Witness Patrick Henry Convince his Fellow Delegates to Take Up Arms Against the King! 12:00 PM Visitor Center Opens for walk-up Ticket Sales. Call 804.648.5015 to confirm availability. 1:00 PM Church doors open for seating 1:30 PM Reenactment beg... Read More

Local historian Priscilla Godfrey shares stories about the early life, political career, historic home, and descendants of our fifth president and founding father. Priscilla Godrey gives history lectures in Loudoun County and for George Mason’s ... Read More

St. Luke’s Historic Church & Museum in beautiful Smithfield, VA, has invited local and regional artists of all ages to take part in our Quarterly Artist Invitational, a celebration of creativity, community, and heritage. The first invitational ... Read More