News Summary
Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns will unveil excerpts from his series ‘The American Revolution’ at Yorktown Battlefield. This event, part of a Revolutionary Festival, celebrates American Independence’s 250th anniversary. Attendees will learn about significant moments from the Siege of Yorktown, with the full series premiering on PBS soon after. Registration is required for what promises to be an enriching experience for all.
Yorktown, Virginia – Renowned documentary filmmaker Ken Burns will present a sneak peek of his upcoming series, “The American Revolution,” at the historic Yorktown Battlefield on September 20, 2025. This exclusive event is organized in partnership with WHRO Public Media, York County, and the VA250 Commission in celebration of the 250th anniversary of American Independence.
Attendees will have the opportunity to witness never-before-seen excerpts from the documentary, which will focus on significant moments from the Siege of Yorktown, a pivotal episode in the American Revolutionary War. The complete documentary series is set to premiere on PBS starting on November 16, 2025, airing nightly from 8-10 p.m. ET until November 21, 2025.
Event Details
Prior to the documentary screening, a Revolutionary Festival will be held, offering various hands-on history activities and entertainment designed for visitors of all ages. The screening event, which will take place in front of the Governor’s Palace in Colonial Williamsburg, is free to the public, but advance registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and water, as well as prepare for varying weather conditions.
Significance of the Documentary
The American Revolution spans six episodes, exploring the remarkable people, places, and events that shaped the United States during its founding period. The documentary features footage captured at over 100 locations across the country, with substantial filming conducted in Colonial Williamsburg, highlighting its integral role in American history.
As part of the screening event, Ken Burns, along with co-directors Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt, will address attendees and share insights into the filmmaking process and the documentary’s themes. This sneak peek offers a unique opportunity for the community to engage with one of America’s most significant historical narratives before the full series airs.
Historical Context
The Colonial National Historical Park, which encompasses the Yorktown Battlefield, is a key site in the narrative of the American Revolution. The park serves as a testament to the sacrifices and struggles faced by those who fought for independence, making it a fitting backdrop for the unveiling of this documentary. The collaborative effort behind the screening reflects a commitment to honoring and educating the public about this crucial period in American history.
The event on September 20 not only aims to provide entertainment and education but also seeks to foster a sense of civic pride and historical awareness in alignment with the commemorative activities planned for the upcoming anniversary.
With preparations underway, those interested in attending the screening are encouraged to register promptly as spaces may fill quickly due to the anticipated popularity of the event. As the nation gears up to reflect on its past, the sneak peek of Ken Burns’ documentary promises to be a memorable and enriching experience for all participants.
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Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
