Are you getting excited about the semiquincentennial? Even if you don’t know how to pronounce it, you may know that’s just a fancy way of saying it’s the 250th anniversary of something. And in this case, that something is the United States, itself. How many folks or businesses do you know that ever celebrate their semiquincentennial? That’s what makes this such a big deal and, obviously, no one is likely to be celebrating this one more than Virginians. Here are some of the ways you can join in.
The Event: George Washington: A Revolutionary Life Location: Mount Vernon
Dates: Throughout the summer
Event Details: In this immersive experience, you become a fly on the wall during important conversations as our nation was founded. As you listen to these scenes play out, learn about the challenges and experiences Washington faced throughout the presidency. Please note the exhibit officially opens in July, but visit MountVernon.org to learn how you might gain access to early previews. This exhibit is just part of what Mount Vernon has in store this summer. Again, visit the website for more details.
The Event: SAIL250® The Location: Norfolk Harbor The Dates: June 12 through 23
Event Details: “Norfolk played a key role in the birth of our nation,” says Kenneth Cooper “Kenny” Alexander, mayor of Norfolk. “Those who came to the new world, came by ship. We’ve played a key role in tall ships coming to America.”
Beginning Tuesday morning, June 16, the tall ship fleet begins to arrive at Lynnhaven Anchorage on the Chesapeake Bay for this 12-day international maritime festival, which will bring more than 60 tall ships and military vessels representing 30 countries to Norfolk. The spectacular 26-nautical-mile Parade of Sail begins on Friday morning (June 19). Fifteen public viewing sites along the route will give spectators unprecedented access to this maritime spectacle. he US Navy’s famed Blue Angels will conduct a flyover during the 4.5-hour Parade of Sail. For more details, visit Sail250Virginia.com.
The Event: America. Made In Virginia: 250 Years Together The Date: July 4. The Location: Colonial Williamsburg
Event Details: Come to think of it, America really was made in Virginia. This celebration includes live music, historical performances, and a drone/fireworks show, focusing on the past, present, and future of the United States.
This event also includes a live two-hour special, America. Made In Virginia: 250 Years Together, which will be broadcast by PBS on television and streaming platforms.
Other noteworthy events planned for the upcoming months include:
Freedom Flows on the Potomac: Celebrating 250 Years of the Virginia Declaration of Rights – June 12 – 14
Juneteenth – June 19
African Landing Day Commemoration – August 22
For more details on these and other upcoming events honoring the nation’s 250th, visit VA250.org. Additionally, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, at 428 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd. has a variety of events planned. Learn more about these at VirginiaHistory.org.
Think about it, if you don’t make it this year, who knows what you’ll be doing when the quincentennial rolls around.
Editorial by Steve Cook; May 2026