Preview of Ken Burns’s The American Revolution Documentary

Frequently Asked Questions

When is this event?

This FREE public preview of filmmaker Ken Burns’s The American Revolution will take place on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 8 p.m. on Palace Green. Featuring live remarks by Ken Burns, guests will watch history unfold on the very grounds where so much of America’s revolutionary thinking took shape. Admission is free but we encourage you to register to receive event updates, including inclement weather notices, via text message and email.

This special screening experience is presented as part of the 2025 edition of A Common Cause To All, which will provide an opportunity for state planners and Virginia localities to collaborate on ideas and plans for the semi-quincentennial.

Where can we sit on Palace Green?

General audience areas are free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets.

What’s the inclement weather plan?

This is an outdoor event that will be held regardless of cold temperatures or light rain. Please dress appropriately and bring an umbrella if needed. In the event of severe weather , the event will be moved to the Williamsburg Lodge, 310 South England Street, Williamsburg.

Where should I park?

Limited free parking is available at the Tavern Parking Lot, located off Francis Street. We also recommend using the paid parking lots in Merchants Square. Parking lots require the use of the free Passport app but also offer free 30-minute parking in most cases (Passport app $0.35 convenience fee may apply). Payment kiosks are also available in most locations. For details on WATA bus service schedules and how to use the paid Passport parking app, visit www.colonialwilliamsburg.org/visit/parking/.

What time do the WATA buses run?

Complimentary bus service is provided by Williamsburg Area Transit Authority (WATA). The route servicing Colonial Williamsburg is Route 15: Colonial. The last WATA bus of the evening begins service at 8:30 to return to the Visitor Center at  9 p.m., which conflicts with the timing of the preview event. Guests are encouraged to park in one of the nearby lots and plan to walk back to their vehicles at the conclusion of the event. Additional details about WATA bus service within the Historic Area is available here.

Can I bring a cooler with my own food and drinks?
Yes. Coolers are permitted.

Where can we purchase food and drinks?
Concessions will not be sold at this event. Please bring your own refreshments.
For dining options before the event, please visit colonialwilliamsburghotels.com/dining/ or merchantssquare.org.

Where is the closest restroom?
Public restrooms are located at the Market House of east of the Magazine complex just off of Francis St and at the Everard complex off of Scotland St.

Please note that the following items are not permitted on Colonial Williamsburg Property:

• Weapons
• Beach umbrellas
• Tents
• Drones

Is the viewing area at Palace Green ADA accessible?
The Palace Green is accessible, however, the grass field may be a challenge for someone experiencing mobility difficulties.