Recently, you may have heard rumblings of something called VA250 or Virginia 250. In fact, you may have attended a VA250 event and not even known it. What is it? Why should I care? What are some examples of VA250 events? We’ve answered these and other questions to try to shed light on this exciting multi-year adventure!
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What is VA250? The VA250 is a statewide partnership of localities, museums, nonprofits, government agencies, and more that are working together to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the independence of the United States. Established by the General Assembly in 2020, the VA250 Commission is a legislative agency that oversees and fosters statewide partnerships. While the commemorations in many states will end in 2026, they will continue until 2031 in Virginia when we celebrate the last decisive battle of the Revolutionary War at Yorktown. Why is it important? Although VA250 events are meant to celebrate historic milestones in Virginia and the nation, at the core, they are much more than that. Ultimately, the hope is to educate Americans of all ages about our history; engage with every community to tell a complete story; and inspire people to recommit to the values inherent in citizenship by forming a “more perfect union” as described in the Declaration of Independence. |
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What are some past VA250 events in Yorktown? You may have attended or been involved with one of our past VA250 events in Yorktown. In 2024, we celebrated the 200th Anniversary of Lafayette’s Return, the 250th Anniversary of the Yorktown Tea Party, and the 250th Anniversary of the York County Resolves. 2025 has already featured two signature events including Two Lights for Tomorrow -- the nationwide celebration of Paul Revere’s Ride -- and the 250th Anniversary of Lord Dunmore’s Virginia Campaign. July Fourth and Yorktown Day are also considered VA250 events. What are some upcoming VA250 events? Yorktown has many exciting VA250 events coming up that will culminate in 2031 with the 250th Anniversary of the Siege at Yorktown. - On September 6 and 7, 2025, join us as we bring Historic Main Street to life during the British Occupation of 1781 with our Before the Siege event. Visitors can explore British encampments, watch military drills, and learn about daily life in the colony.
- The celebration continues on September 20, 2025, when the Colonial National Historical Park, in partnership with WHRO Public Media, York County, the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, and the VA250 Commission, invites the public to We the People: A Yorktown Battlefield Event. This is a special screening of Ken Burns’s highly anticipated documentary, The American Revolution, set against the historic backdrop of the Yorktown Battlefield.
- From June 12 to 14, 2026, witness breathtaking tall ships and military vessels during the Sail Yorktown Festival, an official SailVirginia℠ 2026 Affiliate Harbor event. The weekend will include a Parade of Sail, free deck tours aboard magnificent vessels like the barque Picton Castle, musical entertainment, reenactments, and more.
- The festivities continue July 4, 2026, as we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States. The day will include a spectacular fireworks show, free concert, patriotic parade, family activities, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Where can I find more information? If you are interested in learning more about VA250 or other upcoming events, please visit VisitYorktown.org or VA250.org. |
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