April 2025 Events Newsletter
The Revolutionary Rumble
Your monthly guide to events commemorating Virginia’s key role in the founding of our nation as we approach America’s 250th birthday.
Two Lights for Tomorrow is a nationwide initiative to commence the celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The famous ride of Paul Revere occurred April 18 â 19, 1775.
APRIL 1
Culpeper County
The Colonial Militia â Its Dress, Arms, and Equipment
This summer is the 250th anniversary of the creation of the Culpeper Minutemen militia. Join us as local historian Dennis Loba discusses the typical clothing, weapons, and accouterments worn and used by local colonists before and at the beginning of the American Revolution.
APRIL 2, 9, 16
Fairfax County & Virtual
The Revolutionary War Soldierâs Load: The Beginning of the U.S. Army
Over 200,000 Americans served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. These individuals eventually came together to form a functioning and professional Army. Join us to explore how American patriots worked together to create the Continental Army by examining the uniforms, equipment, and weapons of Revolutionary War Soldiers.
APRIL 1 – 4
Richmond
Give Me Liberty Highlight Tour
Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation” highlights Virginiaâs leading role in the American Revolution. It explores the continental and global forces as well as the actions of both iconic and ordinary people that brought about a model of democratic government that changed the world. Join members of the Virginia Museum of History & Culture education team for thirty-minute highlight tours as they offer you an introduction to their newest exhibition.
Richmond
A day-long symposium on the archaeology of historically African American sites. With topics ranging from food to spirituality, panelists will delve into the work theyâre doing today and how that shapes this field in the future. Join us for special Spring Break hands-on stations themed around the American Revolution and our “Give Me Liberty” exhibition. Educators will be upstairs in our galleries with replica artifacts and scavenger hunts. Stop by and learn about what items Continental Army soldiers carried with them, what clothes they wore, and even see some examples of letters they would have written.
APRIL 2 – 6
Gloucester County
VA250 Mobile Museum Comes To Gloucester
The museum will be set up behind the Gloucester Museum of History, perfect timing for Gloucester residents, neighboring counties & those planning to attend the 39th Annual Daffodil Festival.
APRIL 3
Fairfax County
Join us for a unique story time experience at Gunston Hall. During this one-hour program young learners and their caregivers will explore a picture book, engage with hands-on activities, and investigate the historic area on a modified tour.
Fairfax County
Ford Evening Book Talk: Meeting the Moment
Hear from historian William Haldeman, author of “Meeting the Moment: Inspiring Presidential Leadership that Transformed America.” This new book tells the stories of a selected group of US presidents and the inspired leadership characteristics they demonstrated during times of national crisis that set them apart and transformed America â qualities of judgment and ingenuity, dedication and courage, and confidence and optimism.
APRIL 5
Alexandria
Carlyle House Family Fun Day – Poetry Palooza
Read and craft with your friends on the Carlyle House Magnolia Terrace for Family Fun Day on the first Saturday of the month from April-November! You can sit in on story time that starts at the top of the hour and participate in crafts and other activities that relate to the theme of the month.
Bedford County
Spring Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival
Join us for a day filled with wineries, artisans, food vendors, live music, and more on Poplar Forestâs south lawn as we celebrate Jeffersonâs legacy as the father of Virginia wine. Enjoy tastings from regional wineries, shop from local artisan vendors, and enjoy food from one of our local food vendors.
Fredericksburg
Colonial Fair at Historic Kenmore
Huzzah! Step back in time to the Colonial Fair at Historic Kenmore, where 18th-century amusements fill the air. Be amazed by Peter Gardinerâs magical conjuring, giggle at Professor Hornâs Punch & Judy Show, be amazed by equilibrist Signora Bella, and tap your feet to the lively tunes of Colonial Fair. Explore the sweet scents of Perrin Cottage Perfumery, try your hand at interactive colonial games, and chat with living historians who bring the past to life. Itâs a day of fun, magic, and history for all ages.
Halifax County
Patriot Grave Dedication Ceremony
The Dan River Chapter, Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution will conduct a grave dedication ceremony to honor the patriotic service of Rev. Reuben Pickett (1752-1823). Reverend Pickettâs grave site is at the Black Walnut Baptist Church.
Henrico County
Tell Me About It: Beginning Oral History Interviews
Do you want to talk to family members about their memories and record them, but aren’t sure where to start? This workshop will be a beginner’s guide to oral history interviews.
Isle of Wight County
Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex Walking Tour
Join us as we explore this 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st century site and share the story of its beginnings as well as a few tales of capers and duels.
King William County
Join the West Point Historical Society for a presentation by author Dr. Mary Bayliss about the industrious family, the Dooley’s of Maymont Park in Richmond, Virginia, who invested in railroads and built the Terminal Hotel in West Point, Virginia.
Montgomery County
This free public event at Historic Smithfield in Blacksburg will bring together Cherokee people and a descendant of the 6,000-man militia army that invaded the Cherokee lands in 1776 in reprisal for a Cherokee effort to take back what they saw as their lands in what is now east Tennessee, Western North and South Carolina, and Kentucky from Southern backcountry settlers. We will offer a forum between descendants on the legacy of the war, living history recreations of those on both sides of the conflict, historic trade demonstrations, and a dramatization of the Avery Treaty of 1777 that ended the war at the Long Island of the Holston (present day Kingsport, TN).
Roanoke
18th Century Saturday at the Station
This spring, the Roanoke History & O. Winston Link Museums’s Saturday at the Station will travel back in time to the 18th century! Visitors can experience 18th century games, clothing, and sensory stations in the museum’s Revolutionary War exhibitions. Plus, hear from Fincastle Company’s living history interpreters who will be onsite in period clothing, talking about 18th century life on the frontier.
Westmoreland County
Stratford Hall’s Brews & BBQ Festival
Enjoy an incredible line-up of craft brews, wines, spirits, barbecue, live music, and more at historic Stratford Hall. With your ticket, youâll have access to BBQ pitmasters serving up mouthwatering barbecue, craft brews, local wineries, spirits, a spread of other local fare and sweet treats, artisan vendors, live music, and more. Wander the gardens and explore the c. 1738 Great Houseâs top floor
APRIL 5 – 6
Gloucester County
This beloved annual event, themed “It’s All Sunshine & Daffodils,” will take place on the first weekend in April, transforming Main Street into a vibrant display of yellow blooms and festive activities. Enjoy a parade filled with dazzling floats, live music performances, local artisans, delicious food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment. Donât miss the renowned Daffodil Show, showcasing stunning floral arrangements, and explore the unique shops and exhibits that make this festival a true Gloucester tradition.
APRIL 6
Isle of Wight County
From the site’s pre-colonial existence to the present day, Windsor Castle tells the fascinating history of the development of Smithfield. Join us for this walking tour through history as we explore the house and several of the outbuildings.
APRIL 8
Botetourt County
Deciphering Codes in Death Certificates
Curious what those red number codes are on death certificates? Having trouble reading the doctorâs handwriting to figure out cause of death? Let us help! Join library genealogist, Rena Worthen, to learn how to decipher codes on death certificates to learn more about the life of your ancestors.
King William County
2025 King William Ruritan Club Fishfry
Come out to dine, dance and listen to the music. Faron Hamblin will provide the live entertainment again â he was a big hit last year.
APRIL 9
Alexandria
Carlyle House Book Club-Braddockâs Defeat
Join the Carlyle House Book Club as we discuss David Prestonâs “Braddock’s Defeat” as part of our commemoration of the 270th anniversary of General Braddockâs Grandest Congress.
CharlottesvilleÂ
Talk on Swan Tavern Archaeological Investigations
Between January and April of 2023, Rivanna Archaeological Services conducted phased archaeological investigations at the site of the former Swan Tavern, a tavern and house of entertainment established c. 1773 by John Jouett, Sr., and located east of and adjacent to Court House Square in Charlottesville, Virginia. This talk will present the findings of these investigations, summarize the artifacts recovered, cultural features documented, and discuss the significance of the property.
APRIL 10
Chesterfield County
Forgotten Patriots: Virginiaâs Black Soldiers in the American Revolution
Discover the role played by Black Virginians during the American Revolution. Black Virginians camped, marched and fought side-by-side with their neighbors in pursuit of liberty and independence from English Rule.
Fredericksburg
This event is a wonderful opportunity to explore George Washington’s Ferry Farm, learn about our engaging field trip programs, and network with fellow educators. Join us as we express our appreciation for educators and see firsthand how our programs can enhance your curriculum and inspire your students.
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: A History of American Samplers
Dawn Burnett of Preservation Virginia and Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown presents an overview of the history of American samplers with special attention given to 18th century works. This event includes a hands-on demonstration of the basic steps of stitching and an explanation of historic function and design. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
Richmond
Madeira, a fortified wine that could withstand the journey across the Atlantic Ocean without losing its flavor, was a popular drink with many prominent Patriots. George Washington enjoyed the drink personally, and purchased bottles to share with his officers during the war. John Hancock was involved in a customs dispute regarding the importation of Madeira, resulting in rising tensions between Boston colonists and British economic policies. Thomas Jefferson even toasted the signing of the Declaration of Independence with the drink. Participants will enjoy tastings, light snacks, and a short talk about the history of Madeira, as well as after-hours access to Virginia Museum of History’s signature VA250th exhibition, “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation.”
Virtual
Red Hill Rediscovered: Home for a “Most Notable Patriot” – Patrick Henry’s Life at Scotchtown
Join Elyse Werling, curator of collections for Preservation Virginia, as she discusses the lives, triumphs, and tragedies that filled the halls of Patrick Henryâs largest home, Scotchtown, in Hanover County. This virtual talk will be streamed LIVE on Red Hillâs social media pages.
APRIL 11 – 22
Two Lights For Tomorrow: A Nationwide Call to Action
Two Lights for Tomorrow is a nationwide initiative to commence the celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The famous ride of Paul Revere occurred overnight on April 18 â 19, 1775. Two Lights for Tomorrow originated out of multi-state collaboration at “A Common Cause to All” in Williamsburg and uses the imagery of that shining light 250 years ago as a uniting call to action today for our fellow citizens, no matter where they are, to commemorate and remind ourselves that our history is about working together for a better tomorrow. In Virginia, weâll light our lanterns from April 11th to April 22nd, the 250th anniversary of the Gunpower Incident in Williamsburg. We invite everyone across the state and across the nation to join us in this nationally unifying commemoration. Some states will display their lights on the anniversary itself on April 18th, others will be displaying their lights the entire month of April. In some states, a day of service will follow the lantern lightings as a reminder that the idea of serving one another has been part of our national identity since that very first day 250 years ago.
APRIL 12
Alexandria
The âGrandest Congressâ: The French and Indian War in Alexandria
Visit us as we commemorate the 270th anniversary of the French and Indian War. John Carlyleâs home was host to General Edward Braddock and five of the Royal Governors in April 1755. Learn about what happened at that meeting and how that affected the future of the 13 colonies. Living historians and hands-on activities will be available for visitors of all ages.
Alexandria
Girl Scout Day: The French and Indian War in Alexandria
Learn about the French and Indian War through visiting Carlyle House during our commemoration of General Braddockâs meeting in 1755. Scouts will complete activities that will help them earn a variety of Scout badges including: Daisies: Good Neighbor, Brownies: Celebrating Community, and Juniors: Detectives & Playing the Past.
Charlotte County
Lantern Tour with Patrick Henry Jolly
Patrick Henry’s 5th great grandson will show visitors around the historic grounds, including Quarter Place, the Henry House, and the Henry family cemetery.
Hanover County
Scotchtownâs Annual Fiber Festival
Bring your family and join us as we celebrate spring, the shearing of the sheep, and fiber production at Scotchtown! Sheep shearer Dave from Dellyâs Delights Farms will be here answering all your questions about our sheep, the process of shearing, and the important role of preparing the fleece for dyeing and spinning. Members from Clothos Handspinners guild, an educational non-profit organization located in Richmond, will be on-site demonstrating the process of wool production including carding, spinning, weaving and dyeing.
Henrico County
What’s In a Name?: The Legacy of African Names
Discover the significance of traditional African names from Central, Western, and Southern Africa and how these names were transformed during the colonial period, Civil Rights Era, and beyond. Learn the cultural, symbolic, and spiritual meanings behind common African American names and naming conventions.
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: Indigo and Natural Dyeing, Historic and Modern Sustainability
Artist and Designer Haylie Zapantis presents traditional dyeing techniques using indigo and discusses her current work in sustainable textile practices. Registered participants will have the opportunity to dye a provided item using demonstrated techniques, all are welcome to come and observe. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: Clotho’s Handspinners Guild
Clotho’s Handspinners Guild members will be onsite to demonstrate the art and craft of wool production including carding, spinning, and weaving. Drop in and experience several opportunities for hands-on learning. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
King William County
300th Anniversary of “Oldest Courthouse Still in Continuous Use”
A resolution will be presented to the Honorable B. Elliott Bondurant to mark and memorialize the significance of the occasion. Participating in the festivities will be: Political and Local Dignitaries, Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard (James Russell), Rappahannock Colonial Heritage Society Dancers, local talent, a variety of food trucks, and other community organizations.
Portsmouth
The Long Journey to Freedom: Lord Dunmoreâs Ethiopian Regiment
Dr. Newby-Alexanderâs lecture will examine the history of Lord Dunmoreâs Ethiopian Regiment. In November 1775 Lord Dunmore issue a proclamation promising freedom to enslaved Blacks that joined the British military to suppress the Revolution. Wearing uniforms emblazoned with the words âLiberty to Slaves,â approximately 300 men answered his call. This lecture will examine their motivations, wartime experiences, and the complications that arose surrounding their status as free men after the war.
Richmond
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow: Hair Jewelry in Virginia History
While elaborate hair jewelry is most often thought of as tokens of remembrance for loved ones past, hair has also historically been used as symbols of friendship or intimacy, and passed between individuals still very much alive. This program will explore some early origins of hair jewelry, the process of making the pieces, and the symbolism evident in the iconography and materials often used.
APRIL 13
Richmond
Witness Patrick Henry convince his fellow delegates to take up arms against the King!
APRIL 14
Albemarle County
Pursuits of Knowledge: Conversations at Monticello
Dr. Jonathan Gienapp on “Against Constitutional Originalism: A Historical Critique.” The ongoing “Pursuits of Knowledgeâ series features programs that explore the past and present to help us think about our modern world. These eclectic offerings include discussions on recent publications, a theatric performance, and a dynamic conversation about the important role that museums play in sharing womenâs history.
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: Learning to Cross Stitch Then and Now
Historian Lisa Denton gives a brief overview of the history of counted cross stitch, then leads hands-on practice of the fundamental techniques of modern cross stitch. All instruction and supplies are included. Registered participants will leave with a stitching project of their own. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
Richmond
Virginia Museum of History & Culture members can enjoy a relaxing evening in the spacious Virginia House gardens accompanied by live jazz music. Bring your blanket and picnic or pre-purchase local cider or cheese options for pick-up at the event.
APRIL 15 – 17
Staunton
VA250 Mobile Museum Experience Visits the Frontier Culture Museum
The VA250 Mobile Museum Experience will be visiting the Frontier Culture Museum. Stop by and learn why Virginia’s History is America’s Story!
Staunton
After visiting the Mobile Museum, receive a coupon for a special $3 entrance to the Frontier Culture Museum to use that day. Our special Revolution on the Frontier program will run from 1-8 pm on the Eastern Woodlands Indian and 1760s Settlement sites. Immerse yourself in Crockettâs Western Battalion, a state regimental force tasked with maintaining the western front of the Revolution. Learn about Native allies and how the Revolution affected Indigenous neighbors.
APRIL 16
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: Learning to Cross Stitch Then and Now
Historian Lisa Denton gives a brief overview of the history of counted cross stitch, then leads hands-on practice of the fundamental techniques of modern cross stitch. All instruction and supplies are included. Registered participants will leave with a stitching project of their own. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
Richmond
John Trumbull (1756â1843) experienced the American Revolution firsthandâhe served as aid to George Washington and Horatio Gates, was shot at, and was jailed as a spy. He made it his mission to record the war, giving visual form to what most citizens of the new United States thought: that they had brought into the world a great and unprecedented political experiment. His purpose, he wrote, was âto preserve and diffuse the memory of the noblest series of actions which have ever presented themselves in the history of man.â Although Trumbullâs contemporaries viewed him as a painter, Trumbull thought of himself as a historian. Richard Brookhiser tells Trumbullâs story of acclaim and recognition, a story complicated by provincialism, war, a messy personal life, and, ultimately, changing fashion. Trumbull depicted the story of self-rule in the modern worldâa story as important and as contested today as it was 250 years ago.
APRIL 17
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: Whole Cloth Quilting
Whole cloth quilting and embellishment techniques prevalent in eighteenth-century America will be explored, and registered participants will leave with their own example of a handsewn quilt block using reproduction fabrics. All instruction and supplies will be provided. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
APRIL 18
Pulaski County
Remembering the 250th of Revere’s Ride
Join the Pulaski County 250th of the American Revolution Committee along with Wilderness Road Regional Museum for an event to mark the 250th Anniversary of Paul Revere’s ride. Our local horsemen will ride the streets of Newbern announcing the movement of the British Regulars. They will then gather with local living historians and other guests at Wilderness Road Regional Museum for an evening of music, a reading of Longfellow’s poem, and selected tastes of Boston.
APRIL 19
Alexandria
Discovering Alexandria Architecture Walking Tour
Alexandria has grown from a small town in the 18th century to a bustling small city in the 21st century. Join us for a tour of Alexandria as we explore looking at the various Architecture styles that adorn the city streets and make it one of the best places to live and work.
Chesapeake
Join the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation for an entertaining evening commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Enjoy family fun in a tavern-like atmosphere filled with colonial games, trivia, music, and more. You may wear period attire to compete in our Revolutionary Attire Contest or to earn extra raffle tickets.
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: A Revolution in Quilting
Alicia Thomas, Executive Director of the Virginia Quilt Museum, will discuss how quilting has changed, and, in some ways, stayed the same over the course of the past 250 years, focusing on how it has always been an art form that allowed women to express their opinions. Quilts will be present from the museum education collection including an unfinished quilt top from 1874 and the Virginia Quilt made in 1991 to commemorate Virginia history. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
Henrico County
We’re on the hunt for Henrico’s history! Do you have photographs, letters, or other documents related to your family or Henrico that you would like scanned? Bring your items to be digitized.
Fairfax County
Lexington and Concord Family Day
Learn about the outbreak of the Revolutionary War at Lexington & Concord and discover why the Second Continental Congress chose Washington to take command. Hear our resident fifer perform military music from the Revolution, witness blacksmithing demonstrations, and meet animals from the estate.
Richmond
Anniversary of Lexington & Concord Military Demonstrations
On April 19, 1775, the first military engagements of the American Revolution took place at the Battles of Lexington & Concord. On the 250th anniversary of these climactic events, visit the Virginia Museum of History & Culture to meet with living historians portraying Revolutionary War soldiers to learn about military life during the 1700s. After meeting with the living historians, be sure to visit the VMHC’s “Give Me Liberty” exhibit to learn about Virginia’s leading role in the American Revolution.
Westmoreland County & Virtual
âRebel Abroad: A Stratford Subversive in the Heart of Empireâ with Dr. Gordon Blaine Steffey
The events of April 19, 1775, in Massachusetts Bay Colony are often remembered collectively as âthe shot heard round the world.â Skirmishes in and around Lexington & Concord between British Regulars and colonial Militia were only the first phase of the action. The next phase was a contest for control of the narrative about what actually happened, a phase in which a Lee brother of Stratford was a primary actor. Join us in-person at the Jessie Ball duPont Memorial Library or online as we commemorate shots fired at Lexington & Concord and learn the gripping true story of how this Stratford born and raised Rebel Abroad waged a media war against British tyranny.
Westmoreland County
Easter Eggstravaganza at Stratford Hall
Join Stratford Hall and the local Northern Neck Lodge 32 of the Fraternal Order of Police for a free Easter Eggstravaganza, including egg hunt and activities, in front of the c. 1738 Great House at Stratford Hall.
APRIL 20
Fairfax County
During this one-hour program young learners and their caregivers will explore a picture book, engage with hands-on activities, and investigate the historic area on a modified tour.
Fairfax County
Enjoy a special Easter buffet from the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant, which includes spiral-cut honey-glazed ham, roasted leg of lamb, Martha’s hoecakes, and more.
APRIL 22
Fairfax County
Sewing Demonstrations: Recreating Historic Clothing
Watch as we recreate clothing for the enslaved people at Mount Vernon and the yellow silk gown that Martha Washington wore to her wedding to George Washington.
Fairfax County
Sensory-Friendly Family Evening
Watch our Revolutionary War Film with closed captions, lowered volume, and no 4D elements. Plus, explore the museum, see original objects owned by the Washingtons, and enjoy hands-on activities.
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: Whole Cloth Quilting
Whole cloth quilting and embellishment techniques prevalent in eighteenth-century America will be explored, and registered participants will leave with their own example of a handsewn quilt block using reproduction fabrics. All instruction and supplies will be provided. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
APRIL 23
Prince William County
Take a Sip of History: Cemeteries of Prince William County
There are hundreds of cemeteries in Prince William County, ranging from small family graveyards nestled in the woods to the prominent National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico. Join local historians and archaeologists at Water’s End Brewery for stories about some of the most unique burials and final resting places that hold the secrets of Prince William County’s past.
APRIL 24
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: Discover Basic Patch Quilting (Part 1)
The square patch quilt block is one of the oldest and most popular quilt blocks, great for beginners and experienced quilters alike. In this two-part class, we will discover the versatility and creative potential of working with nine simple squares of fabric. Part 2 of this class will be on May 1. Plan to attend both sessions to get the most out of your experience. You will only need to register once for the April 24 session. All instruction and supplies will be provided. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
APRIL 24 – 27
Norfolk
Join a celebration 250 years in the making! On the occasion of the 250th birthday of the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, the 2025 Virginia International Tattoo will throw a spectacular party showcasing an international cast of more than 800 civilian and military performers from several nations. Returning favorites include Norway’s spectacular Band and Drill Team of His Majesty the King’s Guard, the rousing Massed Pipes and Drums from four nations and the nimble OzScot Australia Highland Dancers. Exciting new performers include the Japan Air Self-Defense Force Central Band in their first trip to the United States.
APRIL 25
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: 18th Century Virginia Needlework
Kim Ivey, Textile Historian and recently retired Senior Curator of Textiles and Historic Interiors at The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, presents a look at 18th century needlework focusing on examples of American schoolgirl samplers from Virginia. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
APRIL 25 – 26
Campbell County
Join the Revolution! America 250!
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the vibrant history of America’s fight for independence at “Join the Revolution! America 250.” This unforgettable event commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States and promises a day filled with engaging activities and educational experiences for all ages. This educational event will feature 12 interactive stations, each designed to captivate young minds and bring history to life. Join us for a day open to the public where everyone can explore and enjoy the rich history of America’s fight for independence.
APRIL 26
Alexandria
Join our yoga instructor for an hour-long Yoga Class on Carlyle Houseâs Magnolia Terrace. A gentle flow yoga class. We will build heat with sun salutations then progress to balance, deep stretching and finally relaxation.
Charlotte County
Join fellow astronomers, star-gazing enthusiasts, and Red Hill staff for a Star Party. Telescopes will be available for viewing or feel free to bring your own.
Chesterfield County
A spark was ignited on April 20, 1775, when Governor Dunmore seized the gunpowder stores from the public powder magazine in Williamsburg. This act led the House of Burgesses to convene in nearby Raleigh Tavern to deliberate their course of action over the violation of their rights. Predictably, other Virginia counties met, engaging in heated debates over the potential conflict with England. Join us nearly 250 years to the day after news of the Battle of Lexington and Concord broke to locals in the Virginia Gazette. This free event will feature a reenactment of how the citizens of Chesterfield County responded to this historic news.
Fairfax County
Shop for heirloom vegetables, herbs, and annual flowersâplus, native perennials, trees, and shrubs grown in Mount Vernon’s greenhouses.
Hampton
Celebrate the diverse history and cultures found in Hampton and around the world. A visual feast of color will greet everyone through dance, music, art, storytelling, and food in our world market.
Isle of Wight County
Cemetery Preservation Workshop
The workshop is a free program designed to educate volunteers on the necessary training needed to safely preserve and protect historic tombstones and markers. This program promotes engagement and preservation of the church cemetery through education and practical experience.
Louisa
Join us for a fun-filled day exploring the rich history of Louisa County. Enjoy living history demonstrations like hearth-cooking, spinning, blacksmithing, and so much more. There will be activities for kids, animals, craft and food vendors, music, and plenty of excitement.
Roanoke
Taught by Monacan Nation Elder Bertie Branham, this workshop explores the Monacan tradition of basketry. Using freshly harvested honeysuckle, workshop participants will weave their own honeysuckle baskets while hearing Monacan Nation history and exploring Indigenous traditions and culture. This workshop has been made possible, in part, by a grant from VA250 in partnership with Virginia Humanities.
Scott County
Join the celebration of historic exploration at the Blockhouse in Natural Tunnel State Park, where you can experience a reenactment of Daniel Booneâs notable journey âInto the Wilderness.â Attendees will gather to witness the preparations involved in Booneâs trailblazing from Kingsport, TN to Fort Boonesborough, KY. This event, hosted by Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association, Natural Tunnel State Park, and Scott County 250, invites everyone to engage with history. The reenactment will showcase a variety of demonstrations that reflect the skills and activities necessary for survival during Booneâs time.
APRIL 27
Albemarle County
Annual Highland Sheep Shearing
Tom Stanley will demonstrate the New Zealand sheep shearing method at this educational, agricultural event. We will also have traditional wool carding and spinning demonstrations for the family.
Richmond County
The Kidnapping of Pocahontas, Politics, and Mythmaking in Patawomeck Country
In 1613 one of the most famous events in early American history happened on the Northern Neck, at the Patawomeck village of Passapatanzy in modern-day King George County. The kidnapping of Pocahontas has been portrayed in history and popular culture as a betrayal of Wahunsenacawhâs daughter by the Patawomeck werowance, Japazaw, for over four centuries. However, from the moment it happened, the narrative surrounding this event was controlled by English colonizers with very specific, and nefarious, goals. This presentation takes an Indigenous-centered approach to that specific event, understanding it in reference to the larger social, political, and cultural contexts that were at play during the time.
APRIL 28
Richmond
2025 James Monroe Day Ceremony at Hollywood Cemetery
Come to the annual ceremony honoring President and Revolutionary War hero James Monroe. The ceremony is held annually at his tomb, the restored “Birdcage” monument at Presidents Circle, Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond. In addition to a presidential wreath, lineage societies present their wreaths to honor President Monroe. Local and state leaders give comments honoring Monroe.
APRIL 29
Fairfax County
Author Lecture with Rick Atkinson: The Fate of the Day
Hear from bestselling author Rick Atkinson, author of “The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777-1780.” Discover a riveting account of the middle years of the American Revolution and gain a new perspective on the demands that a democracy makes on its citizens.
Henrico County
Hand Crafted: The Art of Weaving
The role of fabric production in eighteenth-century America, basic weaving concepts and techniques will be covered. Then, using lap looms, registered participants will produce an example of a handwoven textile. All instruction and supplies will be provided. This project is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and VA250.
Looking Ahead
July 4, 2025, in Hampton. Details coming soon!
