Established by the Virginia General Assembly in 2020, VA250 events commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the Independence of the United States. Several events have already been held throughout the state to celebrate, with more to come. Here are some of the upcoming activities planned to honor 250 years of the country’s freedom.
Through December 31, 2025
Patriots Path: A Revolutionary War Encampment at Mount Vernon
Experience firsthand what life was like for Continental soldiers and patriots during the Revolutionary War at this encampment. You can touch items inside the tents and even wash clothes in the laundry yard. George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon
November 1, 2025
250 Years of U.S. Navy History
Marcus Robbins, the Norfolk Naval Shipyard Command’s historian and archivist, will speak about the history of the Navy, including the naval battles, vessels, and officers who have shaped the last 250 years. Portsmouth Welcome Center: 206 High St., Portsmouth
December 9, 2025
Battle of Great Bridge
Learn how a December 9, 1775, battle over a narrow bridge that connected Norfolk to North Carolina was pivotal in driving British forces from the colony. Isle of Wight County Museum: 103 Main St., Smithfield
March 2–April 13, 2026
Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation
This exhibit highlights the essential Virginia people, events, and sites during the 1774 to 1776 time period that helped liberate our nation. Central Rappahannock Regional Library: 806 Lyons Blvd., Fredericksburg
June 19–23, 2026
Sail250 Virginia
Historic vessels are set to arrive in Alexandria and other harbors June 12 to 15, then they’ll sail to Norfolk to join an international fleet of tall ships, military vessels, and character boats at this maritime festival. Norfolk’s Sail250 event will include more than 60 ships from 20 countries. City of Norfolk’s Town Point Park: 113 Waterside Dr., Norfolk
Feature image of Sail250 Virginia courtesy Norfolk Festevents
This story originally ran in our July Issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
