Established in 1610, Hampton is located in the center of Coastal Virginia. Hampton boasts a city rich in history and adventure, from the “Sea to the Stars.” Experience the sands of the wide open beaches on the Chesapeake Bay; tour the waterways on a harbor cruise and gaze at the cosmos at the Virginia Air and Space Science Center. Hampton’s business districts – Downtown, Phoebus and Coliseum Central offer culinary delights, shopping and great meeting and event spaces. A unique setting at the confluence of the Chesapeake Bay and the James River, Hampton has been at the forefront of fundamental milestones in our nation’s history. Experience this rich history by exploring Fort Monroe National Monument, the Hampton History Museum, Aberdeen Gardens and the Emancipation Oak.
Hampton in the American Revolution
The Battle of Hampton: The First Battle of the Revolutionary War outside New England
Fought October 26-27, 1775, the Battle of Hampton was the beginning of the Revolutionary War in Virginia. It was a turning point in Virginia’s transition from resistance to rebellion, and at its heart was a struggle for the meaning and experience of liberty. The Revolutionary War is a key part of Hampton’s “Arc of Freedom.”
The Battle of Hampton was a planned British naval attack on the town of Hampton, thwarted by local soldiers and sailors and troops sent from Williamsburg. Leading up to the battle, British officials demanded return of property taken from a grounded British ship, while local Patriots demanded that British officers return Joseph Harris and other enslaved people who had escaped and sought refuge aboard the British fleet. Joseph Harris was a skilled harbor pilot, and he and other Freedom Seekers played pivotal roles in the battle. Shortly afterward, Lord Dunmore drafted his proclamation formally offering freedom to enslaved people who would join the British.
A Soldier's PlayThe Hampton University Repertory Theatre presents A Soldier's Play, winner of the 1982 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. A murder mystery that takes a hard lo... Read More
Phoebus 125th Anniversary CelebrationEnjoy live entertainment, a bustling craft marketplace showcasing local artisans, a lively beer garden, mouthwatering food trucks, and community event... Read More
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Mosaic FestivalCelebrate the diverse history and cultures found in Hampton and around the world. A visual feast of color will greet everyone through dance, music, ar... Read More
Air Power Over Hampton RoadsThe air show will feature numerous jaw-dropping flight performances, STEM exhibits, a kid's play area, a beer garden & concessions.... Read More
Blackbeard Pirate Festival Enjoy the sights and sounds of 18th-century Hampton overrun by pirates. Hampton's waterfront comes alive with dozens of pirate re-enactors, costumed i... Read More
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Sankofa's International Day of Remembrance Join the Sankofa Projects as they educate and celebrate the richness and diversity of the African diaspora and bring awareness to this tragic chapter ... Read More
A Juneteenth Pageant-The PlayThe contestants will not only display their outer beauty but will also reveal their internal struggles with a mixture of song, spoken word, laughter, ... Read More
African Landing DayCommemorate the first African Landing at Fort Monroe with a special, meaningful program.... Read More
Battle of HamptonFought October 26-27, 1775, the Battle of Hampton was the beginning of the Revolutionary War in Virginia. ... Read More
Veterans Day Parade The parade begins at Continental Park with activities for all ages including exhibits, entertainment, food trucks, and living history interpreters.... Read More
