VA250 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250)?
The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) is a bipartisan commission established by the Virginia General Assembly in 2020 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in Virginia. The Commission’s mission is to develop and implement a statewide commemoration that is comprehensive, educational, and inspiring.
When is the commemoration happening? How long does it last?
VA250’s commemoration is happening now through 2031.
While the peak year is 2026, there are many events and programs happening throughout the commemoration period to mark the historic events that led up to July 4, 1776. After, the commemoration will continue marking the historic battles and events that would eventually lead to the decisive victory at Yorktown on October 19, 1781.
What is the difference between VA250 and America250?
What does VA250 have planned?
VA250 has a wide range of events and programs planned for the commemoration, including:
What was Virginia’s role in the Revolutionary War?
Virginia played a vital role in the American Revolution. It was one of the first colonies to support independence, and it provided significant military and financial resources to the Continental Army. Virginia was also home to many of the Founding Fathers, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, George Mason, and James Madison.
What are some specific examples of Virginia’s contributions to the American Revolution?
Virginia was the first colony to establish a Committee of Correspondence, which helped to coordinate resistance to British rule.
Virginia was home to the First Continental Congress and the Second Continental Congress, which both played important roles in the lead-up to the war.
Virginia raised and equipped the largest contingent of troops in the Continental Army.
Virginia was the site of many important battles, including the Battle of Yorktown, which effectively ended the war.
What is a semiquincentennial? What is a sestercentennial?
A semiquincentennial is a 250th anniversary. A sestercentennial is the same thing.
Why is it called a commemoration and not a celebration?
A commemoration is an event or series of events that remembers or honors an important historical event or person. A celebration is an event that expresses happiness or joy. Commemorations can be celebratory in nature, but they also often include educational and reflective components. This commemoration celebrates the historic moments that lead to our nation’s founding while reflecting and teaching the whole history of that time.
The anniversary doesn’t happen until 2026. What is there to do now? How do I get involved?
There are many things you can do now to get involved in the commemoration:
How do I volunteer?
To volunteer for VA250, please contact your nearest Local 250 Committee.
What is a VA250 Local Committee?
VA250 local committees are groups of volunteers who are working to plan and implement commemoration events and programs in their communities. There are over 100 VA250 local committees across Virginia.
How can I request a visit from the Mobile Museum?
To request a visit from the VA250 Mobile Museum, please visit the Commission’s website and submit a pre-request form. The museum will be available beginning fall 2024.
Is there a national commission? Are other states doing the same thing?
Yes, there is a national commission called the American Revolution 250 Commission. Many other states are also planning commemorations for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
Where can I learn more?
You can learn more about VA250 by exploring our website, following our social media, and subscribing to our email updates.